There is currently an extensive interest and investigation occurring in a number of patients that have been shown to have what is termed “chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency.” This is a malformation that involves a large vein in the chest and in the neck as well. Abnormalities in the vein wall contribute to poor flow in the veins just described. This procedure is designed to open these veins and is thought to improve circulation and the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Investigations to find these abnormal veins involves various modalities of ultrasound or injecting a contrast dye into the veins.
Much more information needs to be acquired to determine whether some patients with multiple sclerosis patients have a problem with the venous system circulation in their neck and chest. If this is true some patients with MS can possibly be improved with innovative surgery.
