What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system, which can range from relatively benign to somewhat disabling to devastating communication between the brain and other parts of the body is disrupted most people experience their first symptoms between the ages of 20 and 40 most MS patients experience muscle weakness in their extremities and difficulty with balance and coordination; in the worst cases, MS can produce partial or complete paralysis dizziness, speech impediments, and tremors are other frequent complaints about half of all people with MS experience cognitive impairments

Is there any Treatment? there is no cure for MS Interferon for treatment of relapsing-remitting MS reduces the number of attacks and may slow the progression of physical disability Copaxone immunosuppressant drugs (e.g. chemotherapy) supportive drugs to reduce symptoms

What Causes MS? an autoimmune disease??? a disease in which the body launches an attack against its own tissues in MS, it is the nerve-insulating myelin that is attacked chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI)??? narrowing of veins in chest, neck and spine the venous system is not able to efficiently remove blood from the brain blood leaks into the brain, depositing iron, which triggers an immune response the International Union of Phlebology (47 countries) describes how to diagnose through imaging and treat vein malformations (e.g. CCSVI)

Is there Treatment for CCSVI? liberation procedure ‘balloons’ open up narrowed veins or inserted stents help keep veins open

Why the Interest? in 2009, Zamboni and his colleagues showed an association between CCSVI and MS 65 people underwent the liberation procedure to relieve the venous narrowing showed improvement in some study parameters at 18 months in 2010, the University of Buffalo observed evidence of CCSVI in 56% (62%) of people with MS, compared to 22% of healthy controls MS patients who have had the liberation procedure quickly experience an improvement in ‘brain fuzziness’ and circulation; and over time, a reduction in brain lesions and a marked improvement in the quality of life

Is there Imaging and Treatment in North America? Buffalo ($6,000.00) Detroit ($ ) private imaging increasing by the day no treatment yet available International treatment Kuwait

Many Unanswered Questions what is the cause of narrow veins? with what medical conditions is CCSVI associated? what are the potential impacts of CCSVI in the short-term to long-term? does CCSVI cause MS?

Discussion controversy the International Union of Phlebology established an expert panel to formulate guidelines for physicians and healthcare professionals around the world on the evaluation and treatment of vein malformations (e.g. CCSVI) why is Canada ignoring the consensus document? should Canada image for venous malformations and treat them? the result: a large population to explore the possible link between CCSVI and MS, and whether the liberation procedure improves quality of life, and halts or stops disease progression