Direct Microsurgical Embolectomy for an Acute Distal Basilar Artery Occlusion

Abstract

Background: Acute basilar artery occlusion is associated with high mortality rates, up to 35%-40%. Early revascularization by intravenous thrombolysis, intra-arterial thrombolysis, and endovascular mechanical embolectomy is considered the best option to date. The objective of this technical report is to present the direct microsurgical embolectomy technique for an acute distal basilar artery occlusion as an urgent life-saving revascularization procedure.

Methods: A 71-year-old male patient suffered from an acute embolic basilar artery occlusion and became unconscious (Glasgow Coma Scale 4). Computed tomography angiography and MRA revealed the distal basilar artery occlusion along with an increased diffusion-weighted imaging signal in the corresponding territory. After an individual case discussion, the patient underwent a microsurgical embolectomy via a frontotemporal craniotomy and an anterior temporal approach.

Results: Intraoperative indocyanine green and postoperative computed tomography angiography revealed complete revascularization of the previously occluded basilar quadfurcation. The patient steadily recovered and was able to walk with assistance after 4 weeks.

Conclusions: Microsurgical embolectomy can be an effective treatment option for acute distal basilar artery occlusion in selected cases with experienced surgeons, but a critical preoperative decision-making process is needed.

Keywords: Basilar artery; Basilar artery occlusion; Embolectomy; Ischemic stroke; Posterior circulation.