Zamboni (Bologna) identified that chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency is strongly associated with multiple sclerosis. MRI Studies shows gadolinium transit over the blood brain barrier, suggesting an organic relationship to chronic cerebral hydrostatic pressure changes associated with stenoses of the extracranial venous drainage system. Significant interest has been generated to further explore the potential value of venous angioplasty as a potential therapeutic measure in the treatment of MS.
Controlled clinical studies to elucidate the value of such procedures are underway.