Transvenous Stent-assisted Coil Embolization for Management of Dehiscent High Jugular Bulb With Tinnitus and Contralateral Hypoplastic Venous Sinuses.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of transvenous stent-assisted coil embolization for dehiscent high jugular bulb (HJB) with tinnitus and contralateral hypoplastic venous sinus.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review.

SETTING

Tertiary academic medical center.

METHODS

From September 2008 to October 2018, a series of patients with dehiscent HJB presenting with intractable pulsatile tinnitus abated only by ipsilateral jugular vein compression were included. Patients underwent transvenous stent-assisted coil embolization for selective obstruction to the dome of the HJB due to hypoplastic contralateral transverse or sigmoid venous sinus. Technical safety and clinical efficacy were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical outcome measurements included pure-tone audiogram, tinnitus character, and tinnitus handicap inventory and evaluated based on the change during the first 6 months after the procedure.

RESULTS

Subjects included five patients with dehiscent HJB and troublesome pulsatile tinnitus who refused surgery (n = 4), or who experienced recurrence after surgical covering and reinforcement using autologous cartilage (n = 1). The mean age of the five patients (only female) was 45 years. Transvenous stent-assisted coil embolization was technically successful in all patients with symptomatic dehiscent HJB, with no procedure-related complications. Temporary postprocedural headache was observed in two patients, but resolved within 3 days. Symptoms were completely resolved in all cases. There was no recurrence or aggravation of tinnitus during follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Transvenous stent-assisted coil embolization for dehiscent HJB with tinnitus and contralateral hypoplastic transverse or sigmoid venous sinus could be a technically safe and clinically effective treatment strategy while preserving cranial venous drainage.