Introduction: It has been recently reported that vascular compression of the cerebral peduncle may underlie the etiology of Parkinson’s Disease

Methods: Retrospective, case-control review of high-resolution MRIs of patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD) and age-matched controls. 50 patients in each arm.

Results: To date, there have no cases of vascular compression of the cerebral peduncle in PD. Further review of younger, unilateral onset cases is pending.

Conclusions: Based on our review of PD versus age-matched controls, there is no convincing evidence of vascular-related compression for the pathogenesis of PD

Patient Care: Critical evaluation of proposed pathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease and consideration of surgical treatment for this condition

Learning Objectives: By the conclusion of this session, participants should be able to: 1) evaluate the evidence indicating a compressive, vascular etiology for Parkinson's Disease 2) consider the role of microvascular decompression as surgery to treatment for PD

References: (1) JANNETTA, P., WHITING, D., FLETCHER, L., HOBBS, J., BRILLMAN, J., QUIGLEY, M., FUKUI, M., WILLIAMS, R.. Parkinson’s disease: an inquiry into the etiology and treatment. Neurology International, North America, 3, Aug. 2011