A Case of Rotational Vertebral Artery Syndrome after Vertebral Artery Dissection

Abstract

Rotational vertebral artery syndrome (RVAS), also called Bow-Hunter syndrome, is characterized by position-aggravated reversible vertebra-basillarischemia. By rotating the head to one side, the mechanical compression of a dominant vertebral artery (VA) in the setting of a hypoplastic contralateral VA might cause tinnitus, vertigo and syncope. A 60-year-old male experienced recurrent tinnitus and vertigo while rotating the head to the right side. Neck CT images showed no abnormal structures near the course of both VAs. In 3-phase dynamic neck CT angiography, a focal vertebral artery dissection was identified at the right C6 transverse foramen. Close observation and anticoagulation therapy were started to prevent thrombo-embolic complications. Herein, we report a case of RVAS with vertebral artery dissection with a review of the literatures.