CCSVI: Interventional MS Treatments
One major clinical development is the recent recognition that venous interventions may play an important role in treating some patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Italian doctor Paolo Zamboni from the University of Carrera ignited the fire with the theory that MS may not be only an autoimmune disorder, but also be the result of abnormal blood flow to and from the brain. The idea that the etiology of some MS patient symptoms may have a venous component is a radical departure from current medical thinking. Effectiveness of interventional MS treatments for chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) an abnormality in blood drainage from the brain and spinal cord because of strictures or blockages in the veins, the blood backs up creating dangerous iron deposits and eventually lesions that cause the symptoms of MS. MS is a chronic nervous disorder featuring demyelination, noting white spots in the brain or spinal cord. Progressive changes occur including headaches, weakness, pain, paralysis, contractures, vision problems, bladder and bowel issues, etc.
CCSVI's role in MS-and its endovascular treatment by an interventional radiologist via balloon angioplasty and/or stents to open up veins is being actively investigated and could be transformative for patients.
Because the treatment is not experimental and FDA-approved, most insurance policies have been covering it as a treatment for venous obstruction, not for MS.
Vascular and Interventional Physicians, PC (VIP) is offering 'The Liberation Procedure', for patients with an established diagnosis of symptomatic venous compression with relationship to multiple sclerosis (MS). Doppler ultrasound testing and MR venography are available to diagnose disease in the dominant veins providing outflow from the head and neck. Based on these findings, we can consider patients for endovascular treatment.
Endovascular treatment for CCSVI consists of both angioplasty and possible stent placement. First a venogram is performed. These images will enable us to determine if the veins are patent (open) or if they have a stenosis (narrowing or blockage). We also note changes in pressure measurements and assess collaterals.
If a stenosis is present, we can then move forward with angioplasty for treatment. Once that balloon is positioned across the narrowing, the balloon is inflated. All of these procedures require an observation period of a few hours before patients are discharged. If you are traveling to us for these services, we ask that you remain in the area for at least 24 hours if you have been treated with angioplasty or stent placement. Patients who undergo a venogram that reveals no evidence for CCSVI can leave once the 3-hour recovery has been completed.
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