The problem of overdiagnosis of vertebral artery compression syndrome

Abstract

Vertebral artery compression is a syndrome that occurs as a result of hemodynamically significant partial or complete obstruction of vertebral arteries by extravascular structures. In clinical practice, this condition is most often called vertebral artery syndrome. Any vertebral segments can be compressed, but most often the lesion is determined at the level of C1–C2. Russian authors consider vertebral artery compression to be a common cause of a wide range of patient complaints, including dizziness, headaches, and subjective tinnitus. In some studies, it is reported that vertebral artery syndrome develops in 50% of patients with degenerative changes in the cervical spine. In the world literature, vertebral artery compression syndrome which is often referred to as “bow hunter’s syndrome” is called a rare pathology. Such a pronounced difference in the frequency of detection of vertebral artery compression in Russian and world literature may be associated with a lack of common diagnostic criteria, low awareness of alternative diagnoses, and incorrect interpretation of patient complaints. It is obvious that these factors need to be corrected in order to reduce the likelihood of overdiagnosis of vertebral artery compression syndrome and improve the quality of medical care.