Course

Vertebral artery dissection — posterior circulation stroke mechanism and CTA/MRA detection (Advanced)

Advanced course: vertebral artery dissection can cause posterior circulation ischemic stroke (dizziness, imbalance, brainstem symptoms). Learn presentation clues and how CTA/MRA evaluate it

FoundationsCaregiver, SurvivorAdvanced50 minPlain (6–8)

Educational only

Educational only — not medical advice.

What you'll learn

  • Understand vertebral dissection as a tear in the artery wall (high-level)
  • Recognize posterior circulation symptom clusters that can occur
  • Understand CTA/MRA role in detection and why CT head alone may be insufficient
  • Know questions about meds, activity restrictions, and follow-up imaging

Practice check

Check your understanding

A few untimed questions. Pick an answer to see instant feedback, then continue to the next lesson.

0 of 3 answered

Question 1

1. Vertebral artery dissection can lead to posterior circulation ischemic stroke.

Question 2

2. A common imaging test for suspected vertebral dissection is…

Question 3

3. A helpful follow-up question is…