Nonaneurysmal cerebrovascular conditions associated with intracranial arterial fenestrations

Abstract

Background: Cerebral arteries have been identified with multiple anatomical variations, including a concomitant fenestration with aneurysms, but no association is proven. Aim: to investigate non aneurysmal disorders associated with intracranial arterial fenestration. Methods: A thorough and detailed analysis of the available literature from 1970 to 2020 in PubMed were contemplated to identify and address all the disorders associated with arterial fenestration with exclusion of intracranial aneurysms. Results: While segmental vulnerability may induce invisible anatomical histological and hemodynamic changes, cadaveric studies showed that the frequency of fenestration is up to 40% higher than the clinical reports, and the cadaveric reports also showed a higher occurrence of such fenestrations as compared to radiological studies. The vertebrobasilar system, the most common site of fenestration. Fused vertebrae and other vascular defects of up to 7% are previously associated with the vertebral artery fenestration. Conclusion: intracranial fenestration is a critical anatomical variant. Thus, A comprehensive angiographical examination can enhance overall prognosis in presurgical planning in association with other vascular abnormalities.