Reversal of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging Hyperintensities of the Pons after Endovascular Reperfusion for Proximal Extracranial Vertebral Artery Occlusion

Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) hyperintensities corresponding to ischemic areas have been regarded as an ischemic core. However, several studies have demonstrated the reversibility of DWI hyperintense signals in hyperacute stroke patients. We experienced the DWI reversibility of posterior circulation ischemia after revascularization of the proximal extracranial vertebral artery. The perfusion of the posterior circulation might be significantly reduced due to bilateral vertebral art ery occlusion. Considering this case, early improvement of the perfusion of the ischemic area might key role of DWI reversibility.