Neurological impairment correlated to abnormal cerebral non-dominant transverse sinus drainage: a report of 12 cases

Abstract

Background Dominant venous sinus drainage of the brain is a common anatomic characteristic. Cortical venous partial retention that is due to slow non-dominant venous sinus drainage can increase local cerebral vein pressure, and cause related neurological impairment. This article is to investigate the diagnosis of local intracranial hypertension caused by abnormal non-dominant transverse sinus drainage and the effect of anticoagulation treatment. Methods From February 2008 to February 2016, there were 12 patients diagnosed as abnormal cerebral non-dominant transverse sinus drainage. Among these patients, 8 patients presented as dizziness and brain swelling; 2 presented as subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH); one presented as cerebral cortex bleeding; 2 presented as blurred vision; 2 presented as ipsilateral pulsatile tinnitus; one presented as narcolepsy. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure of 2 patients were > 280 mm H₂O. Nine patients were confirmed no abnormal characteristics by MRI. In DSA examination, 10 patients were confirmed non-dominant transverse sinus drainage and contrast agent retention on the left side, and 2 patients were confirmed on the right side. All patients were treated by anticoagulation, and 2 underwent stent implantation, 5 underwent thrombolysis through carotid artery. Results All patients were greatly improved after 7-day treatment. They were discharged within 2 weeks and were continuously treated by anticoagulation after discharge for one year. There was no recurrence or aggravation in all patients during the follow-up period ranging from 6 to 34 months. Two patients were confirmed less contrast agent retention by DSA after 6 months.  Conclusions Abnormal non-dominant transverse sinus drainage can increase local cerebral vein pressure, and presents non-specific clinical features such as dizziness, headache or tinnitus. Anticoagulation, thrombolysis or stent implantation can promote local cerebral venous drainage, relieve potential blood stasis and edema in the brain, and improve clinical symptoms.

DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2016.12.004