Vertebral artery dissection (neck artery tear)
About Vertebral artery dissection (neck artery tear)
The vertebral artery feeds into the basilar artery. The basilar artery supplies the cerebellum and mid brain. The vertebral arteries travel through a channel in the spine. Sudden movement of the neck, such as in a car accident, can cause injury (dissection) of this vessel. The dissection can cause an obstruction of blood flow resulting in a stroke. Strokes in this area cause balance problems, room spinning, double vision and difficulty speaking.Symptoms
Room spinning (vertigo), double vision, incoordination, problems swallowing, difficulty speaking, weakness.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests will be done to establish the diagnosis. A CTA of the head and neck, a MRA of the head and neck or an angiogram identifies the vascular abnormality.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, EKG, MRI, X-ray.
OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment depends on the size of the dissection. Therapy may include: anti-platelet medications (aspirin, clopidogrel/Plavix), anticoagulation with heparin, and/or blood pressure medications.Medical specialties
Neurology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Vertebral artery dissection (neck artery tear).