Role of cerebral angiography and review of endovascular treatment options in moyamoya disease and syndrome

Moyamoya is characterized by stenosis or occlusion of the terminal internal carotid artery and the formation of a compensatory abnormal vascular network. Cerebral angiography plays an essential role for the definitive diagnosis and surgical treatment planning of moyamoya disease and syndrome; however, there has been little documented experience with endovascular techniques, i.e., angioplasty and intracranial stenting, in this patient population. Initial reports suggest that the endovascular treatments can be performed safely, however, their long-term durability and role in acutely symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with moyamoya disease and syndrome is yet to be determined.