Embolization with temporary balloon occlusion of the internal carotid or vertebral arteries.

Functional vascular anastomoses at the base of the brain allow for temporary occlusion of the carotid or vertebral arteries. Six embolizations with temporary balloon occlusion of the internal carotid or vertebral artery are reported. Polyvinyl alcohol was the embolic material in all cases and all procedures were performed using digital angiography. The size of the embolic particles and the positioning of the balloon related to the branches of the occluded vessel is discussed.