Neurointerventional participation in craniopagus separation

Interv Neuroradiol. 2015 Aug;21(4):552-7. doi: 10.1177/1591019915590313. Epub 2015 Jun 10.

Abstract

Craniopagus-type conjoined twins (joined at the head) are exceedingly rare. Separation of craniopagus conjoined twins is a challenging task mainly owing to complex vascular anatomy and limited experience with this disorder. Modern neuroimaging techniques including digital subtraction angiography can be used to preoperatively assess the cerebral vascular system. These techniques can also provide the raw data to fabricate three-dimensional true-scale models. We report a case in which endovascular techniques have been used in the separation of craniopagus conjoined twins. To our knowledge there are no reports of successful incorporation of neurointerventional methods in the disconnection of shared venous channels.

Keywords: Craniopagus; conjoined; endovascular embolization; twins.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Angiography, Digital Subtraction
  • Cerebral Angiography
  • Child, Preschool
  • Endovascular Procedures / methods
  • Female
  • Head / diagnostic imaging
  • Head / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Neuroimaging / methods*
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / methods*
  • Radiography, Interventional
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Twins, Conjoined / surgery*