Venous sinus stenting for idiopathic intracranial hypertension is not associated with cortical venous occlusion

Background The effect of dural venous sinus stenting has been investigated for the treatment of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) but the effect of stenting on the long-term patency of the cortical draining veins, especially the vein of Labbé (VOL), remains unknown. Methods We reviewed our database of 38 patients with IIH with 41 stented dural venous sinuses between October 2006 and December 2014. Demographic, clinical, and radiological data were reviewed. Follow-up catheter angiographic data were included when available. Results Stent placement spanned the ostium of the VOL in 35 patients (92.1%), with no immediate effect on the drainage of the VOL. Follow-up angiography (mean 35.1 months, range 1.7-80.7 months) was available in 24 patients, 21 of whom had stents spanning the VOL ostium. The VOL remained patent without occlusion or drainage alteration in all 21 patients. There were no immediate or long-term intracranial complications. Conclusions Dural venous sinus stenting for patients with IIH does not affect the immediate or long-term patency of the VOL and is not associated with intracranial complications.