Is angioplasty a viable MS treatment?

Angioplasty could be a viable new way to treat venous abnormalities in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and relieve some of the symptoms of the condition.

This is the belief of researchers at Northshore University Healthsystem, who presented their findings at the Society of Interventional Radiology's 37th Annual Scientific Meeting.

They claim that angioplasty, in which a temporary "tiny balloon" is inserted into an artery to widen it, is a safe way of treating vein obstruction.

Interventional radiologist at Northshore University and lead author of the study Dr Hector Ferral commented: "These early results show that performing angioplasty on azygos and jugular vein lesions may have a positive impact on the symptoms of those individuals with MS and also could be an effective palliative treatment geared toward improving their quality of life."

During the investigation it was found that 95 per cent of participants had venous obstructions, which can be treated through angioplasty without fatal risks.

Dr Ferral and his colleagues reported an improvement in 55 per cent of people who had the procedure.

It is estimated that around 100,000 people have MS in the UK and could benefit from angioplasty.

Read about Barchester expertise in offering multiple sclerosis support.