Dolicho-arteriopathies (Kinking, Coiling, and Tortuosity) of the Carotid Arteries: A Study by Magnetic Resonance Angiography

Abstract

Aims and objectives:The aims and objectives of the present study were to document the dolicho-arteriopathies (DAs) of the common carotid artery (CCA) and internal carotid artery (ICA) and to estimate the external diameter of the segments of the ICA and CCA. Materials and methods: Patients were divided into three groups according to contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CEMRA) appearance of the CA: group I, normal; group II, the CCA with CA; and group III, the ICA with CA. The external diameters of CCA and ICA with or without DA were measured at the tree different parts, and mean diameters value were calculated. Results: The most common DAs were tortuosity (75.5%), followed by kinking (17.1%) and coiling (7.4%). Dolicho-arteriopathies were found in 134 (40.3%) subjects, 89 (66.4%) in females and 45 (33.6%) in males older than 60 years (p < 0.001). Total 64 (47.8%) subjects presented CCA with DA. Total 33 (24.6%) presented the monolateral DA of CCA. Total 31 (23%) subjects presented the bilateral DA of the CCA. Total 70 (52.2%) subjects presented the ICA with DA. Total 29 (21.6%) presented the monolateral DA of ICA. Total 41 (30.5%) subjects presented the bilateral DA of ICA. The external diameters of CAA and ICA with DA were larger than without DA (p < 0.005). Conclusion:Monolateral and bilateral DA of the CA have been frequently observed in females and over the age of 60 years. The external diameters of the CAA and ICA with DA were larger than without DA.

Bilateral Dolichoarteriopathies of the Internal Carotid Artery: Surgical Treatment and Results

“…3,4 For example, the latest calculations presented by Balevi indicate that bilateral DICA occurs in 30.5% of cases. 5 In another study by Di Pino et al, the prevalence of carotid artery anomalies among adults and children did not exceed 9.9%. 6 It is known that DICA can be asymptomatic, but most often presents with hemispheric symptoms.…”