Tentorial artery embolization in tentorial dural arteriovenous fistulas.

INTRODUCTION

The tentorial artery is often involved in arterial supply to tentorial dural fistulas. The hypertrophied tentorial artery is accessible to embolization, either with glue or with particles.

METHODS

Six patients are presented with tentorial dural fistulas, mainly supplied by the tentorial artery. Two patients presented with intracranial hemorrhage, two with pulsatile tinnitus and one with progressive tetraparesis, and in one patient the tentorial dural fistula was an incidental finding. Different endovascular techniques were used to embolize the tentorial artery in the process of endovascular occlusion of the fistulas.

RESULTS

All six tentorial dural fistulas were completely occluded by endovascular techniques, confirmed at follow-up angiography. There were no complications. When direct catheterization of the tentorial artery was possible, glue injection with temporary balloon occlusion of the internal carotid artery at the level of the tentorial artery origin was effective and safe.

CONCLUSION

Different endovascular techniques may be successfully applied to embolize the tentorial artery in the treatment of tentorial dural fistulas.