Antegrade recanalization of parent artery in proximal occlusion of distal posterior inferior cerebellar artery ruptured aneurysm: A case report.

RATIONALE

Distal posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) aneurysms are extremely rare. Herein, we describe a case of PICA pseudoaneurysm with proximal occlusion achieved using detachable coils, but antegrade recanalization, which showed a normal PICA configuration on follow-up angiography. Possible mechanisms of the recanalization and lesions are also discussed.

PATIENT CONCERNS

The patient was an 80-year-old woman with a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) resulting from a distal PICA-ruptured aneurysm, initially misdiagnosed as a non-aneurysmal traumatic SAH.

DIAGNOSIS

On hospitalization day 10, the patient developed rebleeding, and brain computed tomography angiography confirmed a distal PICA pseudoaneurysm.

INTERVENTION

Endovascular coil embolization was performed. Inevitably, the proximal PICA was occluded using detachable coils, and complete occlusion of the affected PICA was confirmed on the final angiogram.

OUTCOME

Fortunately, the patient recovered fully without any neurological sequelae. One year after the procedure, a follow-up angiography was performed, which revealed recanalization of the previously occluded PICA, with normal configuration and no visible aneurysmal dilatation.

CONCLUSION

Even if the SAH is scanty and predominantly in the perimesencephalic cistern, performing a catheter-based angiography is essential. In the case of proximal occlusion of the parent artery without internal trapping in endovascular treatment of PICA pseudoaneurysm, follow-up examination with a short-term angiography might be crucial.