CCSVI & MS FOLLOW UP – EXCLUSIVELY PROVIDED BY STC
It is imperative that All MS patients who undergo the Liberation Procedure undergo regular follow ups which include, immediate PT/INR level follow ups and medication adjustments upon return to Canada, 3 month and 6 month follow up Doppler/ MRI studies , and a brain MRI at 12 months to study plaque regression.
Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency (CCSVI) remains a research based cause for Multiple Sclerosis (MS). A complete contrast enhanced ‘traditional’ MS MRI study of the brain and cervical cord in addition to CCSVI research protocol has evolved as the best combination method for both investigation of CCSVI and follow up. A regular ultrasound will only be able to give information of the jugular veins in the neck after they exit the skull. Ultrasound is limited by being highly “user dependent” and regular ultrasound cannot “see” through bone. Flow quantification MRI does not have this problem. In fact, it is equally easy to view the veins inside or outside the skull, neck or chest with Flow Quantification MRI. Research based Siemens’ MRI protocol developed by Dr. Mark Haake is used to ensure consistency of MRI data analysis which includes SWI and Flow Quantification.
For the convenience of our patients, STC is now offering a 3 month and 6 month follow up study in Vancouver as part of our package. The twelve month follow up brain MRI should be booked by your family physician or Neurologist as a routine exam for an MS patient. Physician requisition is required for all follow up studies. The cost of follow up will now be included in our package price.
For those patients who want to have a preoperative study done, this can also be arranged.
