Assessment of chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency in patients with multiple sclerosis by a morphological-hemodynamic-map software

Aim. The aim of the present study was to determine a Echo- Color-Doppler (ECD) data analysis algorithm for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) affected by chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) by using a morphologicalhemodynamic-map (MEM-net). The CCSVI is a new nosological vascular pattern that has been recently founded also in MS patients. Methods. We investigated 552 MS patients (mean age: 43±10 years) by Echo-Color-Doppler (ECD, MyLab Vinco System, Esaote), out of which 333 females (60%) and 219 males (40%). The identification of CCSVI by ECD examination was obtained following Zamboni’s criteria. The ECD data were analysed by MEM-net software (www.mem-net.it), which made possible an on-line diagnosis of positive (83%) or negative (17%) CCSVI patients. Results. We classified CCSVI in three different types by identifying a new hemodynamic parameter the “venous compression”. Type-1 with intravenous block (17%), type-2 with extravenous compression (4%) and type-3 with both conditions (79%). Conclusion. The results provide the hemodynamic basis for a new CCSVI classification, which may lead to a better optimization of individual treatment.