Interventional Neuroradiology is a field dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the blood vessels of the brain, spinal cord and other structures of the nervous system.
Procedures are performed using delicate catheters guided through the blood vessels to the area that requires investigation or treatment.
In selected cases, this approach may avoid the need for conventional open surgery. However, not every cerebrovascular condition can be treated through an endovascular approach. The indication depends on the diagnosis, vascular anatomy, imaging findings and the clinical condition of each patient.
Interventional Neuroradiology may be involved in the evaluation and treatment of brain aneurysms, ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, cerebral arteriovenous malformations, dural fistulas, intracranial hemorrhages and other disorders of cerebral circulation.
It may also be used to perform detailed diagnostic examinations, such as cerebral angiography.
Access is usually obtained through an artery, most commonly in the groin or wrist.
From this access point, catheters are guided through the blood vessels with the assistance of imaging equipment until they reach the cerebral region requiring evaluation or treatment.
Specific devices and materials may be introduced through these catheters, depending on the condition and the objectives of the procedure.
The strategy is planned after a detailed analysis of imaging studies and the anatomical characteristics of each case.
A brain aneurysm is a bulge that develops in the wall of an artery in the brain.
Some aneurysms are discovered before causing symptoms. Others may be identified after rupturing, which causes bleeding around the brain and represents a medical emergency.
The decision between monitoring and treatment considers factors such as size, shape, location, medical history, signs of growth and the estimated risk of rupture.
When endovascular treatment is indicated, different techniques may be considered according to the characteristics of the lesion.
Embolization is performed using catheter-based techniques and aims to reduce blood flow into the aneurysm.
The technique and materials used depend on the anatomy of the lesion and the associated blood vessels.
The procedure requires careful planning and follow-up after treatment.
A flow-diverting stent is a device used in selected cases to redirect blood flow and promote the gradual closure of an aneurysm.
Its indication depends on the shape, size and location of the aneurysm, as well as the patient’s clinical condition.
The use of this device should be determined after a detailed assessment of its potential benefits, limitations and risks.
An ischemic stroke occurs when a cerebral artery becomes blocked, reducing or interrupting blood flow to part of the brain.
Symptoms usually appear suddenly and may include weakness on one side of the body, facial asymmetry, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision changes, loss of balance and difficulty walking.
If any of these signs occur, call SAMU immediately at 192 or seek emergency hospital care.
Treatment depends on the time when symptoms began, the affected blood vessel, imaging findings and the patient’s clinical condition.
Mechanical thrombectomy is an endovascular procedure used in selected cases of ischemic stroke caused by the blockage of large cerebral arteries.
Using catheters, specialized devices are guided to the site of the blockage to remove the blood clot and attempt to restore circulation.
The indication follows clinical and imaging criteria. The time between the onset of symptoms and medical care is a decisive factor.
A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel ruptures and causes bleeding into or around the brain.
A sudden and severe headache, vomiting, seizures, muscle weakness, difficulty speaking and changes in consciousness are warning signs that require immediate medical attention.
Treatment depends on the location, volume and cause of the bleeding. Some cases may require endovascular treatment or surgery, while others require intensive clinical management.
Arteriovenous malformations are abnormal connections between arteries and veins.
They may be identified following seizures, neurological symptoms, headaches or intracranial bleeding. Some are discovered incidentally during examinations performed for other reasons.
Treatment depends on the size, location, blood flow pattern and history of bleeding. Options may include monitoring, endovascular treatment, surgery or a combination of approaches.
Dural fistulas are abnormal connections between arteries and veins located in the membranes surrounding the brain or spinal cord.
Symptoms vary according to the location and may include pulsatile noise in the ear, headaches, visual changes, neurological manifestations or hemorrhage.
A detailed analysis of blood circulation helps determine whether treatment is indicated and which approach should be considered.
Cerebral angiography is a catheter-based examination used to visualize blood vessels with precision.
It may be indicated in the investigation of aneurysms, vascular malformations, fistulas and other cerebrovascular abnormalities.
The images obtained help clarify the anatomy and support the planning of an endovascular or surgical procedure.
The possibility of endovascular treatment depends on several factors.
Vascular anatomy, the type of condition, the location of the abnormality, symptoms, imaging findings and the patient’s clinical condition are evaluated together.
In some situations, monitoring may be the most appropriate approach. In others, endovascular treatment, conventional surgery or a combination of therapies may be indicated.
Every decision should be made responsibly, clearly and with careful attention to the individual characteristics of each patient.
Patients diagnosed with a brain aneurysm, vascular malformation, dural fistula or another abnormality of cerebral circulation may seek specialized evaluation to better understand their condition and discuss the available options.
Sudden neurological symptoms, such as muscle weakness, speech changes, facial asymmetry, loss of balance or changes in consciousness, should be treated as an emergency and require immediate hospital care.
