J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  2010 Nov;48(5):465-468. 10.3340/jkns.2010.48.5.465.

Cervical Radiculopathy Caused by Vertebral Artery Loop Formation : A Case Report and Review of the Literature

• Kim HS
• Lee JH
• Cheh G
• Lee SH

• KMID: 1453327
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3340/jkns.2010.48.5.465

Abstract

Vertebral artery loop formation causing encroachment on cervical neural foramen and canal is a rare cause of cervical radiculopathy. We report a case of 61-year-old woman with vertebral artery loop formation who presented with right shoulder pain radiating to her arm for 2 years. Plain radiograph and computed tomography scan revealed widening of the right intervertebral foramen at the C5-6 level. Magnetic resonance imaging and angiogram confirmed the vertebral artery loop formation compressing the right C6 nerve root. We had considered microdecompressive surgery, but the patient's symptoms resolved after conservative management. Clinician should keep in mind that vertebral artery loop formation is one of important causes of cervical radiculopathy. Vertebral artery should be visualized using magnetic resonance angiography in suspected case.

Keyword

Vertebral artery; Vertebral artery loop; Vascular compression; Vascular anomaly; Cervical radiculopathy; Magnetic resonance angiography

MeSH Terms

Arm
Female
Humans
Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Middle Aged
Radiculopathy
Shoulder Pain
Vertebral Artery