Doctors at the Department of Neurosurgery, K.A.P. Viswanatham Government Medical College, attached to Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Government Hospital (MGMGH) in Tiruchi, recently treated a man suffering from an arteriovenous fistula through Onyx embolization.
Embolization is a procedure that blocks blood flow in a vessel using particles, glue, or other substances; Onyx is a liquid embolic agent that can be injected into the body through a catheter, and forms a spongy substance in the targeted area over time.
According to an official statement, the 34-year-old man had been admitted with symptoms of persistent pulsatile tinnitus and frequent headaches. Imaging revealed the presence of a multiple dural arteriovenous fistula (an abnormal connection between an artery and a vein in the dura mater, the protective membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord).
Under the guidance of S. Kumaravel, dean, K.A.P. Viswantham Medical College, MGMGH medical superintendent Udhaya Aruna and deputy superintendent Arun Raj, doctors from the departments of Cardiology, Radiology and Neurology planned a staged embolization on the patient. It was decided to proceed with external carotid artery feeder embolization (an operation that targets lesions in the head, neck, or skull base).
The minimally invasive Onyx technique reduces risk of complications and aids faster recovery.
Angiography after the operation confirmed complete closure of the targeted fistulous connection. The procedure was concluded successfully, and the patient shifted to post-procedure care, said the statement.
Published – January 17, 2025 05:47 pm IST
