Endovascular management of spinal vascular malformations

A New Perspective On Arterioectatic Spinal Angiopathy with a Reversible Pattern: Cause or Consequence?

OBJECTIVE

In 2022, arterioectatic spinal angiopathy (AESA) of childhood was reported as a fatal, progressive, multi-segment myelopathy associated with a unique form of non-inflammatory spinal angiopathy involving diffuse dilatation of the anterior spinal artery and cord congestion in children. In this study, we present four more cases of AESA, using early and long-term conventional imaging and flat detector computed tomography angiography (FDCTA) imaging to assess the probability of disease regression and prevent unnecessary interventions.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and radiological findings of four patients with AESA seen in two neuroradiology departments between 2014 and 2023.

RESULTS

The study included three boys and one girl. Two of the boys were siblings. Although the clinical and radiological presentation in the early stages of the clinical course overlapped the definition of AESA, the clinical course was more benign in three of the cases. The clinical courses of the two siblings with monosegmental cord involvement and largely reversible radiological findings suggest that some of the features in the initial definition of the disease cannot be standardized for all patients. The siblings had a mutation of the NDUFS gene, which is involved in mitochondrial function and clinical-radiological reversibility in these patients.

CONCLUSION

Many mitochondrial diseases, such as this NDUFS mutation, present with myelopathy, and mitochondrial diseases can sometimes show spontaneous recovery. It is crucial to identify other genetic mutations or environmental factors that trigger the accompanying vascular ectatic findings in AESA in larger multicenter studies to prevent its potential lethal course and possible unnecessary surgical-endovascular interventions.

Imaging protocols for non-traumatic spinal cord injury: current state of the art and future directions

INTRODUCTION

Non-traumatic spinal cord injury (NTSCI) is a term used to describe damage to the spinal cord from sources other than trauma. Neuroimaging techniques such as computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have improved our ability to diagnose and manage NTSCIs. Several practice guidelines utilize MRI in the diagnostic evaluation of traumatic and non-traumatic SCI to direct surgical intervention.

AREAS COVERED

The authors review practices surrounding the imaging of various causes of NTSCI as well as recent advances and future directions for the use of novel imaging modalities in this realm. The authors also present discussions around the use of simple radiographs and advanced MRI modalities in clinical settings, and briefly highlight areas of active research that seek to advance our understanding and improve patient care.

EXPERT OPINION

Although several obstacles must be overcome, it appears highly likely that novel quantitative imaging features and advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) as well as machine learning (ML) will revolutionize degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) care by providing earlier diagnosis, accurate localization, monitoring for deterioration and neurological recovery, outcome prediction, and standardized practice. Some intriguing findings in these areas have been published, including the identification of possible serum and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers, which are currently in the early phases of translation.

[Spinal arteriovenous malformations]

Spinal vascular malformations include various entities such as spinal arteriovenous malformations (AVM) and represent a rare disease. Patients may present with acute or progressive sensorimotor deficits and/or nonspecific symptoms such as hypoesthesia or paresthesia, diffuse back and muscle pain, or feelings of weakness. When spinal arteriovenous malformation is suspected, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the first diagnostic step to rule out other differential diagnoses, followed by a selective spinal angiography. Therapeutic options include endovascular therapy by embolization and/or surgical resection. If spinal AVM is treated properly, a significant reduction in symptoms can be achieved.

Onyx embolization of a spinal epidural hemorrhage caused by thoracic spinal epidural arteriovenous fistula: A case report and literature review

Spinal epidural hemorrhages (SEDH) caused by spinal epidural arteriovenous fistulas (SEAVFs) are rare; thus, their specific pathogenesis has not been explained. Furthermore, the standard treatment for SEAVFs has not yet been defined. Here we report the case of a 36-year-old Chinese man who experienced acute onset chest pain and tightness. His symptoms rapidly aggravated until the lower limbs were unable to support him. Spinal magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) revealed a localized SEAVF and a secondary spinal cord lesion at the T4 level. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) confirmed the presence of the SEDH/SEAVF at the T3-4 level with the left radicular artery feeding the fistula. Based on DSA and MRA findings, SEDH, local spinal cord infarction, and spinal venous reflux disorder were conditionally diagnosed. Using the arterial route, Onyx-34 was injected into the fistula to embolize the feeding arteries and the venous system. Angiography was performed after the microcatheter was withdrawn, and no residual fistula or anterior spinal artery was observed. The six-week follow-up MRI showed acceptable healing of the SEAVF, and the patient improved neurologically. This case suggests that endovascular treatment with Onyx-34 embolization should be considered a promising treatment strategy for this type of complicated SEAVF.

Case Report: Differential Diagnosis of Lower Extremity Weakness in a Young Male - Consider Foix Alajouanine Syndrome

Introduction

There is a limited list of emergent spinal cord pathology that must be considered in patients with focal neurological deficits in the emergency department. Identification of these conditions requires a detailed history and neurological exam and may also require advanced testing and imaging.

Case Report

Here we present the case of a patient with a rare arteriovenous malformation of the spinal cord vessels causing congestive myelopathy (Foix-Alajouanine syndrome) that presented as a clinical mimic of spinal cord compression.

Conclusion

Emergency physicians should be aware of Foix-Alajouanine syndrome, as its workup and management differ from more common pathologies that may present similarly.

The efficacy and deficiency of contemporary treatment for spinal cord arteriovenous shunts

Contemporary treatments for spinal cord arteriovenous shunts are only based on clinicians' treatment experiences and expertise due to its rarity. We reviewed the clinical course of the largest multi-cantered cohort to evaluate the efficacy and deficiency of contemporary interventional treatments for spinal cord arteriovenous shunts. The clinical features, treatment results and clinical outcomes of 463 spinal cord arteriovenous shunts patients were retrospectively assessed. The main outcome was the neurological deterioration that was evaluated based on the modified Aminoff and Logue scale. According to post-treatment DSA, complete obliteration was defined as disappearance of the intradural lesion, whereas partial obliteration was defined as any residual intradural lesion remaining visible and was further categorized as shunt-reduction obliteration (the nidus or shunt points was reduced) or palliative obliteration (only obliterated aneurysms or feeders). Cure rate was 40.6% for whole cohort, 58.5% after microsurgery, and 26.4% after embolization. The curative resection was associated with non-metameric lesions, lesions with a maximum diameter < 3 cm and lesions without anterior sulcal artery supply. The curative embolization was associated with fistula-type lesions, non-metameric lesions, and main drainage diameter < 1.5 mm. Permanent treatment-related neurological deficits rate was 11.2% for the whole cohort, 16.1% after microsurgery, and 5.6% after embolization. The pre-treatment clinical deterioration rate was 32.5%/year, which decreased to 9.3%/year after clinical interventions. After partial treatment, the long-term acute and gradual deterioration rate were 5.3%/year and 3.6%/year, respectively. The acute deteriorations were associated with metameric lesions, craniocervical lesions, lesions with a maximum diameter ≥2 cm and residual aneurysm. Residual aneurysm was the only predictor of acute deterioration for non-metameric spinal cord arteriovenous shunts. The gradual deteriorations were associated with palliative obliteration, absence of pre-treatment acute deterioration and intact main drainage. Although clinical risks of spinal cord arteriovenous shunts were reduced after clinical interventions, contemporary treatments for spinal cord arteriovenous shunt remains associated with considerable risks and incomplete efficacy. Individualized treatment plans should be adopted according to the angioarchitectural features and major clinical risks of specific lesions. There is a higher opportunity for complete obliteration for lesions with simple angioarchitecture. However, regarding most of spinal cord arteriovenous shunts with complex vascular anatomy, partial treatment is the only choice. For these patients, palliative obliteration targeting the aneurysms is recommended for reducing hemorrhagic risk, whereas shunt-reduction obliteration is necessary for non-haemorrhagic myelopathy. Contemporary treatment is ineffective in reducing hemorrhagic risk of incurable metameric spinal cord arteriovenous shunts.

Intradural spinal cord arteriovenous shunts in a personal series of 210 patients: novel classification with emphasis on anatomical disposition and angioarchitectonic distribution, related to spinal cord histogenetic units

OBJECTIVE

Few classifications of intradural spinal arteriovenous shunts (ID-SAVSs) have considered their anatomical localization in relation to their phenotype and angioarchitectonics. The authors propose another vision of ID-SAVSs allowing a reappraised classification based on analysis of the anatomical disposition, angioarchitecture, and histogenetic location of these vascular malformations.

METHODS

The radiological and clinical records of 210 patients with ID-SAVSs were retrospectively reviewed, considering their localization, vascular architectonics, and correlation with the 5 histogenetic units of the spinal cord. Among these, 183 files with complete data allowed precise analysis of the ID-SAVSs.

RESULTS

Among these 183 files (162 and 21 cases with single and multiple lesions, respectively), different entities were identified: 13 pial macro arteriovenous fistulas (MAVFs), 92 pial micro arteriovenous fistulas (mAVFs), 33 superficial pial niduses, and 69 intramedullary niduses. Thirteen sulcal shunts (either fistulas or niduses) were considered subtypes of pial lesions. Among the 21 multiple cases, 11 were monomyelomeric while 10 were multimyelomeric. Pial lesions, either fistulas or niduses, were dominantly vascularized by pial arteries (anterior or posterior depending on the localization of the shunt) and occasionally (except for MAVFs) by transmedullary arteries. Pial niduses occasionally extended into the funiculus by recruiting intrinsic veins or by extension of the nidus itself inside the white matter. Intramedullary niduses were always vascularized by both centrifugal and centripetal feeders, respectively, from sulcal arteries (SAs) and pial arteries. Sulcal lesions are pial lesions located within the ventral median sulcus and vascularized by SAs and veins. Single or multiple ID-SAVSs can be part of various syndromes such as hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, Parkes-Weber, RASA1, CLOVES, and spinal arteriovenous metameric syndromes. Histogenetic analyses revealed a specific distribution of each ID-SAVS in the 5 histogenetic units of the spinal cord: intramedullary niduses were found almost equally from cervical to thoracic units, while MAVFs and mAVFs were mostly found from thoracic to postcrural ones. Pial niduses showed intermediate features between intramedullary and fistulous lesions and were mostly distributed from brachial to crural segments.

CONCLUSIONS

Precise analysis of the anatomical disposition of ID-SAVSs in relation to functional histogenetic units allows a better understanding of these lesions and improved therapeutic management.

Myelopathy secondary to an intramedullary arteriovenous malformation in a mature dog

A 2‐year‐old crossbreed dog was presented for evaluation of a 6‐week history of progressive paraparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography angiography of the thoracic and lumbar spinal cord disclosed multifocal, anomalous, small, vascular structures, distributed throughout the subarachnoid space of the included section of the spinal cord. An additional focal intramedullary lesion was identified extending from T9 to T10 to T12. Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of an intramedullary arteriovenous malformation affecting the thoracic spinal cord and leading to diffuse congestion and focal hemorrhages into the affected spinal cord.

Acquired Lumbosacral Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula in Association with Degenerative Lumbosacral Disc Herniation and Spinal Canal Stenosis: Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature

The authors describe two cases harboring lumbosacral spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs) manifested with nonspecific initial symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis and unnecessary procedures. A curvilinear flow void in the lumbar region and thoracic cord congestion with subtle perimedullary flow voids were detected on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in both patients. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography and spinal angiography confirmed the SDAVFs in the lower lumbar and sacral region. Both fistulas were located at the same level of disc herniation and spinal canal stenosis and supplied by branches of the internal iliac arteries (i.e., iliolumbar and lateral sacral arteries) with cranial drainage from the dilated vein of the filum terminale, corresponding to a curvilinear flow void, to the perimedullary veins. The first case was successfully treated with embolization. Another case had recanalization of the fistula 4 months after endovascular treatment and was successfully treated with surgical interruption of the fistula. Our two case reports may provide additional evidence supporting an acquired etiology of SDAVFs, probably secondary to lumbosacral disc herniation and spinal canal stenosis. The authors also reviewed literature about preexistent lumbosacral SDAVFs associated with disc herniation and spinal canal stenosis. From our review, the level of SDAVFs in most patients is correlated with the level of disc herniation, spondylolisthesis, and/or spinal stenosis.

Republished: Spinal arteriovenous malformation without endovascular arterial access: is a combined neurosurgical approach and direct venous puncture an option?

This case report describes a combined neurosurgical and endovascular approach for the treatment of a conus medullaris arteriovenous malformation resulting in considerable improvement in the patient's neurological condition (modified Rankin Scale score 2).

Spinal arteriovenous malformation without endovascular arterial access: is a combined neurosurgical approach and direct venous puncture an option?

This case report describes a combined neurosurgical and endovascular approach for the treatment of a conus medullaris arteriovenous malformation resulting in considerable improvement in the patient's neurological condition (modified Rankin Scale score 2).

Natural history of spinal cord arteriovenous shunts: an observational study

The natural history of intradural spinal cord arteriovenous shunts is unknown. We performed an observational study in a consecutive patient cohort with symptomatic intradural spinal cord arteriovenous shunts who were admitted to three institutes to investigate the clinical course of this complex disease, which would provide valuable evidence to inform clinical decision-making. The clinical course of patients with symptomatic intradural spinal cord arteriovenous shunts from initial presentation to occurrence of clinical deterioration, initiation of treatment, or last follow-up was analysed. Patients with at least 1 month of observation were included in this study. Clinical onset and deterioration patterns were divided into acute and gradual. Annual and cumulative rates of clinical deterioration as well as their risk factors were analysed using Kaplan-Meier life table analysis and Cox proportional hazards model. To assess risks and benefits of treatment, post-treatment clinical courses were further assessed. Four hundred and sixty-six patients with a mean observational period of 36.9 ± 58.8 months were included; 56.7% of patients presented with acute onset, of whom 77.3% experienced spontaneous recovery. Age of onset older than 28 years, initial modified Aminoff and Logue scale of >3, mid-thoracic lesions and non-ventral lesions were independent predictors of failure for spontaneous recovery. The annual risk of general, acute and gradual clinical deterioration after onset was 30.7%, 9.9% and 17.7%, respectively. Risk of deterioration was highest in the early period after initial onset. Acute onset was the only independent risk factor [hazard ratio 1.957 (95% confidence interval, CI 1.324–2.894); P = 0.0008] of acute deterioration and gradual onset was the strongest predictor [hazard ratio 2.350 (95% CI 1.711–3.229); P < 0.0001] of the gradual deterioration among all the stratifying factors. After invasive treatment, complete obliteration was achieved in 37.9% of patients (138 of 364) and improved or stable clinical status was noted in 80.8% of patients. Forty-two patients (11.5%) experienced permanent complications. Overall post-treatment deterioration rate was 8.4%/year, and 5.3%/year if permanent complications were excluded. The natural history of symptomatic spinal cord arteriovenous shunts is poor, especially in the early period after onset, and early intervention is thus recommended. Initial onset pattern significantly affects the natural history of the lesion, which prompts a differentiated treatment strategy.

Surgical Treatment of Vascular Intramedullary Spinal Cord Lesions

Background Vascular lesions represent a rare subset of intramedullary spinal cord pathology and consist of cavernous malformations (CM), hemangioblastomas, and arteriovenous malformations (AVM). These lesions are each unique and the literature pertaining to their surgical management is largely limited to retrospective case series and case reports. Objectives To evaluate the surgical management of each of these lesions with special attention to postoperative functional status. Methods A single-institution case series of intramedullary vascular lesions treated with surgery was retrospectively evaluated. The primary variables of interest included preoperative and postoperative McCormick grades. Other variables of interest included frequency and indication for conventional spinal angiography, rates of preoperative embolization, postprocedural complications, operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and length of hospital stay. Results Thirty-six patients were identified over the 17-year study period, including 20 with hemangioblastomas, 13 with CMs, and three with AVMs. The median preoperative McCormick grades were 2, 2, and 3 for hemangioblastomas, CMs, and AVMs, respectively. The median postoperative McCormick grades were 2, 2, and 2 for hemangioblastomas, CMs, and AVMs, respectively at the most recent follow-up. Preoperative angiography was performed in all AVM cases and 29% of hemangioblastomas. Preoperative embolization was performed in 40% of hemangioblastoma cases undergoing preoperative angiography. Operative times were similar between the three lesion groups. In three cases of hemangioblastoma resection and one case of CM resection, McCormick grade improved by one point following surgery. At a mean follow-up of 30.9 months for hemangioblastomas, 7.95 months for CMs, and 24 months for AVMs, all patients were at least at their discharge baseline, with no new neurologic complaints. Conclusion Intramedullary vascular lesions are rare and represent a complex surgical patient population. Surgical resection with or without preoperative angiography and embolization appears to be safe and to halt neurologic decline.

Temporal evolution of a patient with a spinal dural arteriovenous fistula on serial MRI

Introduction

A spinal dural arteriovenous fistula is a rare type of vascular malformation. If left untreated, these fistulas can result in significant neurological deficits secondary to spinal cord infarct or hemorrhage.

Case presentation

A 70-year-old female with a longstanding history of episodic progressive bilateral lower extremity weakness and sensory disturbances was previously misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Imaging revealed a T2 signal change from T7 to the conus with associated signal change and she subsequently underwent a T10-L1 laminectomy for clip ligation of a spinal dural arteriovenous fistula. Here we present the clinical and radiographic progression of one patient with a spinal dural arteriovenous fistula.

Discussion

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas are a rare but treatable cause of myelopathy, so it is important to understand its natural progression and radiologic findings as it is frequently misdiagnosed.

Microsurgical treatment and outcomes of spinal arteriovenous lesions: Learned from consecutive series of 105 lesions

Spinal arteriovenous lesions (SAVLs), arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), are rare and can devastatingly impair spinal cord function. This study aimed to evaluate clinical outcomes after microsurgical treatment with the aid of intraoperative indocyanine green video-angiography (ICG-VA) in a large series of patients with SAVLs. We retrospectively reviewed the cases of 95 consecutive patients with 105 SAVLs (77 spinal AVFs, 28 spinal AVMs) who had been treated surgically during 2010-2016 in two hospitals by the same experienced surgeon. All patients had undergone magnetic resonance imaging and digital subtraction angiography preoperatively and were assessed using the modified Aminoff and Logue Scale (mALS). All lesions were resected or occluded using ICG-VA. No ICG-VA-related complications occurred. Compared with AVF, patients with AVM tended to be younger (p<0.001) and were at higher risk of an associated aneurysm (p=0.021), hemorrhage (p<0.001), pain (p<0.001) and abrupt onset (p<0.001). SAVLs were most common in the lower thoracic region (45.71%), and their most common clinical presentation was paresthesia (89.52%). At a mean follow-up of 33.3months, mALS indicated significant improvement in patients with spinal AVFs (p<0.001) and AVMs (p=0.002) compared with their status preoperatively. An improved, stable clinical status was noted at the last follow-up in 93.51% of those with AVFs and 89.28% of those with AVMs. Thus, microsurgical treatment of SAVLs produced a lasting positive clinical outcome in a large cohort of consecutive patients. ICG-VA proved to be an efficient intraoperative tool during resection of these lesions, especially in patients with an AVF.

Spinal arteriovenous fistulas in adults: Management of a series of patients treated at a neurology department

OBJECTIVE

Spinal arteriovenous fístulas (SAVF), a rare type of vascular malformation, account for 3% of all spinal cord lesions. Without early treatment, the associated morbidity is high; furthermore, SAVF pose a major diagnostic challenge. Our purpose was to evaluate the clinical characteristics of SAVF and review their progress after treatment to determine whether it may be too late for treatment in some cases.

METHODS

We present a retrospective series of 10 patients diagnosed with SAVF and treated at a tertiary hospital during a 3-year period.

RESULTS

In our sample, SAVF were found to be significantly more frequent in men (80%). Mean age in our sample was 65.4 years. The most common initial symptom was intermittent claudication/paraparesis (70%). In most patients, symptoms appeared slowly and progressively. At the time of diagnosis, the most common symptoms were motor, sensory, and sphincter disorders. Mean time from symptom onset to diagnosis was 24.3 months. Initial diagnosis was erroneous in 60% of the patients. Spinal MRI was diagnostic in 90% of these cases and arteriography in 100%. The most common location of the fistula was the lower thoracic region and the most frequent type was dural (7 cases). All patients were treated with embolisation, surgery, or both and 70% improved after fistula closure regardless of progression time.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnosis of SAVF is difficult and often delayed, which leads to poorer patient prognosis. We should have a high level of suspicion for SAVF in patients with intermittent claudication or paraparesis exacerbated by exercise. Early treatment should be started in these patients. Treatment should always aim to improve quality of life or stabilise symptoms, regardless of progression time.

Clinical Characteristics and Treatment Outcomes of Spinal Arteriovenous Malformations

PURPOSE

Spinal arteriovenous malformations (SAVMs) are rare events. This study evaluated initial clinical presentations and treatment outcomes of SAVMs.

METHODS

In this study, 91 consecutive patients with SAVM between January 1993 and November 2014 were evaluated. Initial clinical presentations, radiological findings, treatment results, and follow-up outcomes were evaluated according to disease type and treatment modalities. Patient status was scored using the modified Rankin scale (mRS) and Aminoff-Logue Disability scale (ALS).

RESULTS

Of the SAVM patients 69 % were male and 31 % were female with a mean age of 49 years (range 11-82 years). At the time of initial imaging evaluation, myelopathy was the most common finding with main complaints of gait disturbance (69 out of 91, 76 %), sensory disturbances (61/91, 67 %), and bowel or bladder symptoms (51/91, 56 %). Among the 80 patients who received treatment 56 (62 %) underwent endovascular embolization and 24 (26 %) underwent surgery. Complete obliteration was achieved in 47 patients (84 %) after endovascular embolization and in 18 (75 %) after surgical ligation. At the time of final follow-up 67 patients (84 %) showed improvement of more than 1 point on the mRS, while 69 (86 %) showed significant improvement on the ALS after treatment.

CONCLUSION

The SAVMs presented with diverse neurological deficits, including myelopathy. Endovascular or surgical treatment of SAVMs can result in good clinical outcomes in most patients.

Spinal arteriovenous malformations: Is surgery indicated?

Purpose:

To identify clinico-radiological distinguishing features in various types of spinal arteriovenous malformations (AVM) with an aim to define the role of surgical intervention.

Materials and Methods:

Hero's modified Di Chiro classification differentiated four types of spinal AVMs on digital subtraction angiogram (DSA) in 74 patients: I. Dural arteriovenous fistulae (n = 35, 47.3%); II. Glomus/intramedullary (n = 13, 17.6%); III. Juvenile/metameric (n = 4, 5.4%); and, IV. Ventral perimedullary fistula (n = 21, 28.4%). A patient with extradural AVM remained unclassified. Demographic profiles, DSA features and reason for surgical referral were recorded. Statistical comparison of discrete variables like gender, spinal cord level, presentation and outcome was made using Chi-square test; and, continuous variables like age, feeder number, duration of symptoms and number of staged embolizations by one way analysis of variance with Boneferoni post hoc comparison. Embolization alone (n = 39, 52.7%), surgery alone (n = 16, 21.6%), and combined approach (n = 4, 5.4%) were the treatments offered (15 were treated elsewhere).

Results:

Type I-AVM occurred in significantly older population than other types (P = 0.01). Mean duration of symptoms was 13.18 ± 12.8 months. Thoracic cord involvement predominated in type-I and III AVMs (P = 0.01). Number of feeding arteries were 1 in 59.7%; 2 in 29.0%; and, multiple in 11.3% patients, respectively. Staged embolization procedures in type-III AVM were significant (P < 0.01). Surgical referral was required due to: Vessel tortuosity/insufficient parent vessel caliber (n = 7); residual AVM (n = 4); low flow AVM (n = 3); and, multiple feeders (n = 2). Check DSA (n = 34) revealed complete AVM obliteration in 26 and minor residual lesion in eight patients. Neurological status improved in 26 and stabilized in 25 patients.

Conclusions:

Differentiating between Type I-IV AVMs has a significant bearing on their management. Surgical intervention should be considered as an important adjunct/alternative to therapeutic embolization.

Surgical and Endovascular Treatment for Spinal Arteriovenous Malformations

Spinal arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a broad term that constitutes diverse vascular pathologies. To date, various classification schemes for spinal AVM have been proposed in literature, which helped neurosurgeons understand the pathophysiology of the disease and determine an optimal treatment strategy. To discuss indications and results of surgical and endovascular interventions for spinal AVM, this article refers to the following classification proposed by Anson and Spetzler in 1992: type I, dural arteriovenous fistula (AVF); type II, glomus intramedullary AVM; type III, juvenile malformations; and type IV, perimedullary AVF. In general, complete obliteration of the fistula is a key for better outcome in type I dural and type IV perimedullary AVFs. On the other hand, in type II glomus and type III juvenile malformations, functional preservation, instead of pursuing angiographical cure, is the main goal of the treatment. In such cases, reduction of the shunt flow can alleviate clinical symptoms. Proper management of spinal AVM should start with neurological examination and understanding of angioarchitectures, which provide critical information that guides the indication and modality of intervention. Finally, close collaboration of the microsurgical and endovascular teams are mandatory for successful treatment.

Radiculo-pial spinal arteriovenous fistulas treated with coils: Report of two cases

Spinal pial arteriovenous fistulas (SPAVFs) are rare lesions that present more frequently in young patients. Lesions located on radiculo-pial arteries without involvement of the anterior spinal artery are even rarer. SPAVFs may present with mass effect, venous congestion or hemorrhage. Most often, treatment is performed either by surgery or endovascularly with fluid embolic material. Use of microcoils has not been reported for this condition.We present two cases of radiculo-pial high-flow SPAVFs in two patients in their early 30 s. One patient presented with abrupt headache without proof of hemorrhage and the other one with trigeminal neuralgia resulting from dilated posterior fossa draining veins remote from the fistula. Both patients were successfully treated with endovascular shunt closure using microcoils with resolution of symptoms and disappearance of the dilated veins at follow-up.With recent advances in microcatheter technology, distal navigation and microcoil embolization offers another option for these cases that may be safer than fluid embolic material.

Combined radiological and surgical management of spinal dural fistulas

INTRODUCTION

Spinal Dural Fistulas (SDAVF) are the most common Spinal Vascular Malformation. The management of SDAVFs involves diagnosis and localisation with MRI and spinal angiography and subsequent embolisation or surgical interruption. We report our experience in treating these fistulas in which we undertake endovascular treatment, if technically feasible, with recourse to surgery only if occlusion is not possible.

METHOD

This retrospective study reviews the management of 38 patients treated for SDAVFs over a 13-year period (1997-2010). Patient demographics, procedure and follow-up over a 6-12-month period (mean of approximately 10 months) were analysed and a qualitative assessment of patient outcome was made.

RESULTS

Patient ages ranged from 20 to 86 (mean 63.5), with 27 male and 11 female patients. A total of 28 patients managed with a combination of embolisation and surgery report either with improved symptoms or a return to normal. The presence of bladder and bowel symptoms indicated more severe disability and their presence at presentation was associated with lack of improvement following treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

We report a treatment strategy for SDAVF involving primary endovascular intervention and reserving surgery for those patients in whom endovascular treatment is not possible.

Foix-alajouanine syndrome presenting as acute cauda equina syndrome: a case report

Study Design Case report. Objective Present a case of Foix-Alajouanine syndrome that presented as acute cauda equina syndrome and discuss the pathophysiology and management. Methods An adult male patient developed sudden onset of back pain and leg pain with weakness of the lower limbs and bladder/bowel dysfunction typical of cauda equina syndrome. Emergency magnetic resonance imaging revealed no compressive lesion in the spine but showed tortuous flow voids and end-on blood vessels in the peridural region suggesting spinal arteriovenous malformation resulting in Foix-Alajouanine syndrome. Results The case was managed by endovascular embolization with excellent results. The pathophysiology, imaging features, management, and literature review of the syndrome is discussed. Conclusion The authors conclude that this condition may be an important differential diagnosis for cauda equina syndrome.

Management of spinal dural arterio-venous fistulas. Report of 12 cases and review of literature

INTRODUCTION

Spinal cord arteriovenous malformations and fistulae are rare vascular lesions than can lead to myelopathy that is at many instances overlooked during diagnosing the cause of progressive myelopathy and weakness. Treatment options involve either endovascular embolization, surgical disconnection or a combination of both. This study aims to evaluate various treatment methods for sDAVFs and the outcome of these methods.

METHODS

This study involved 12 patients suffering from symptoms attributed to spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas; 11 were male and one was a female patient, with ages ranging between 50 years and 71 years. All patients presented with progressive spastic paraparesis of varying grades, and 6 had sphincter disturbances prior to treatment. Patients were evaluated by Aminoff-Logue motor disability scale.

RESULTS

Three were managed by endovascular embolization and 9 by surgical disconnection. Three patients showed full recovery after treatment, 7 patients showed no change in their neurological status following treatment, and 2 patients showed partial recovery after treatment.

CONCLUSION

Spinal AVF is a rare curable cause of spinal myelopathy if managed promptly. Good angiographic studies prior to treatment decision are a must, in order to plan the best approach according to the angioarchitecture of the fistula whether it will allow endovascular embolization or will surgery be more feasible.

MRI in transverse myelitis

Transverse myelitis is an acute inflammatory disease of the spinal cord, characterized by rapid onset of bilateral neurological symptoms. Weakness, sensory disturbance, and autonomic dysfunction evolve over hours or days, most progressing to maximal clinical severity within 10 days of onset. At maximal clinical severity, half will have a paraparesis, and almost all patients have sensory disturbance and bladder dysfunction. Residual disability is divided equally between severe, moderate and minimal or none. The causes of transverse myelitis are diverse; etiologies implicated include demyelinating conditions, collagen vascular disease, and parainfectious causes, however, despite extensive diagnostic work-up many cases are considered idiopathic. Due to heterogeneity in pathogenesis, and the similarity of its clinical presentation with those of various noninflammatory myelopathies, transverse myelitis has frequently been viewed as a diagnostic dilemma. However, as targeted therapies to optimize patient outcome develop, timely identification of the underlying etiology is becoming increasingly important. In this review, we describe the imaging and clinical features of idiopathic and disease-associated transverse myelitis and its major differentials, with discussion of how MR imaging features assist in the identification of various sub-types of transverse myelitis. We will also discuss the potential for advanced MR techniques to contribute to diagnosis and prognostication.

Comparison of surgical and endovascular approach in management of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas: A single center experience of 27 patients

Background:

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is a rare spinal vascular malformation with an annual incidence of 5-10 cases per million. The data on efficacy, recurrence rates and complications of endovascular versus surgical treatment of SDAVF is limited.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective chart review of 27 adult patients with a diagnosis of SDAVF and who underwent treatment at Duke University Hospital between January 1, 1993 and December 31, 2012. We compared the outcome measures by Aminoff–Logue score (ALS) in patients who underwent treatment with endovascular embolization versus surgical ligation of fistula. We compared complication rates, recurrence rates as well as data on long-term follow up in these patients.

Results:

Out of 27 patients in the study, 10 patients underwent endovascular embolization (Onyx was used in 5 patients and NBCA in 5 patients) as the first line therapy. Seventeen patients underwent surgical ligation as initial therapeutic modality. Patients in both groups showed significant improvement in clinical status (ALS) after treatment. One patient in endovascular group developed spinal infarction due to accidental embolization of medullary artery. Three patients in embolization group had recurrence of fistula during the course of follow up requiring surgical ligation. Two patients in surgical group developed local wound infection. None of the patients in surgical group had recurrence of fistula during the course of follow up.

Conclusions:

Endovascular embolization and surgical ligation are effective treatment strategies for SDAVF. Our observations show that surgical ligation may offer permanent cure without any recurrence. Endovascular approach is associated with higher incidence of recurrence, especially with use of onyx.

High cervical arteriovenous fistulas fed by dural and spinal arteries and draining into a single medullary vein: report of 3 cases

OBJECT

The authors previously reported a case of complex arteriovenous fistula (AVF) at C-1 with multiple dural and spinal feeders that were linked with a common medullary venous channel. The purpose of the present study was to collect similar cases and analyze their angioarchitecture to gain a better understanding of this malformation.

METHODS

Three such cases, affecting 2 males and 1 female in their 60s who had presented with hematomyelia (2) or progressive myelopathy (1), were treated surgically, and the operative findings from all 3 cases were compared using digital subtraction angiography (DSA) to determine the angioarchitecture.

RESULTS

The C-1 and C-2 radicular arteries and anterior and posterior spinal arteries supplied feeders to a single medullary draining vein in various combinations and via various routes. The drainage veins ran along the affected ventral nerve roots and lay ventral to the spinal cord. The sites of shunting to the vein were multiple: dural, along the ventral nerve root in the subarachnoid space, and on the spinal cord, showing a vascular structure typical of dural AVF, that is, a direct arteriovenous shunt near the spinal root sleeve fed by one or more dural arteries and ending in a single draining vein, except for intradural shunts fed by feeders from the spinal arteries. In 2 cases with hemorrhagic onset the drainer flowed rostrally, and in 1 case associated with congestive myelopathy the drainer flowed both rostrally and caudally. Preoperative determination of the shunt sites and feeding arteries was difficult because of complex recruitment of the feeders and multiple shunt sites. The angioarchitecture in these cases was clarified postoperatively by meticulous comparison of the DSA images and operative video. Direct surgical intervention led to a favorable outcome in all 3 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

A high cervical complex AVF has unique angioarchitectural characteristics different from those seen in the other spinal regions.

The management of spinal dural fistulas: a 13-year retrospective analysis

INTRODUCTION

Spinal Dural Fistulas (SDAVF) are the most common Spinal Vascular Malformation. The management of SDAVFs has revolved around embolization or surgical interruption. The management strategy employed at this centre is to attempt embolization as first line therapy and to opt for surgery in the event of failure.

METHOD

This retrospective study looks at the management of 38 patients treated for SDAVFs at a tertiary centre over a 13-year period (1997-2010). Patient demographics, procedure and follow-up over a 6-12 month period (mean of approximately 10 months) were analyzed and qualitative assessment of patient outcome was assessed.

RESULTS

Patient ages ranged from 20 to 86 (mean 63.5), with 27 male and 11 female patients. Patients managed since 1995 with a combination of embolization and surgery report either improved symptoms or a return to normal were 73.7%. Micturition and bowel symptoms indicated more severe disability and were more likely to contribute to no improvement in overall outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

This centre has in place a management strategy for SDAVF that contributes to both radiologically and symptomatically successful treatment.

Vascular diseases of the spinal cord: a review

OPINION STATEMENT

• In acute spinal cord ischemia syndrome (ASCIS), treatment recommendations are derived from data of cerebral ischemic stroke, atherosclerotic vascular disease and acute spinal cord injury. Besides acute management, secondary prevention is of major importance. Pathologies affecting the aorta as well as underlying cerebrovascular conditions should be treated whenever possible.• ASCIS may occur after aortic surgery, less often after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). Protocols are proposed.• Acute spinal cord hemorrhage can be treated surgically and/or pharmacologically.• Symptomatic treatment in patients with a spinal cord lesion is of major importance. Depending on level and extension of the lesion, there is a risk for systemic and neurological complications, which may be life-threatening.• Each spinal vascular malformation is a unique lesion that needs an individualized treatment algorithm. In case of a symptomatic vascular malformation, endovascular intervention is the primary treatment option.• Spinal dural Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) may be treated endovascularly or surgically. If preoperative localization of the fistula is possible, surgery is feasible with a low complication rate. In comparison, endovascular approaches are less invasive.• Spinal AVM are rather treated endovascularly than surgically or in a stepwise multidisciplinary approach.• Symptomatic and exophytic spinal cavernous angiomas should be treated surgically. Deep spinal cavernous angiomas that are asymptomatic or only show mild symptoms can be observed.

Endovascular treatment for acute paraplegia after epidural steroid injection in a patient with spinal dural arteriovenous malformation

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs) are the most common type of spinal arteriovenous malformations. Type 1 spinal arteriovenous malformations are defined by the presence of radiculomeningeal feeders that drain into intradural veins. Patients with these lesions frequently present with chronic myelopathy, which is most often caused by venous hypertension. The authors present the case of a 69-year-old man with acute paraparesis following a lumbar epidural injection, resulting from a previously undiagnosed SDAVF. The patient initially reported right lower-extremity weakness and paresthesias and was referred to an orthopedic practice. His pain and weakness were exacerbated with ambulation. Reevaluation at 4 months was remarkable for groin, mild low-back, and buttock pain. The patient received a right L5-S1 interlaminar epidural steroid injection and became acutely weak. He presented to the emergency department 3 hours after the injection. Once MRI of the lumbar and thoracic spine had been performed, the neurosurgery service was consulted, and it was decided to proceed with emergent spinal angiography with the intent to embolize the fistula. An emergent spinal angiogram was obtained, revealing 2 arterial pedicles emanating from the right T-5 and T-6 radicular arteries. Transarterial embolization was thought to be the most rapid way to potentially obliterate the fistula. The patient exhibited immediate improvement in neurological function, and by 6 hours postprocedure, his neurological function was near normal. He was ambulatory and released to home 3 days after the embolization procedure.

[Spinal vascular malformations]

Spinal vascular malformations are a group of rare diseases with different clinical presentations ranging from incidental asymptomatic findings to progressive tetraplegia. This article provides an overview about imaging features as well as clinical and therapeutic aspects of spinal arteriovenous malformations, cavernomas and capillary telangiectasia.

Asymptomatic spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas: pathomechanical considerations

OBJECT

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs) consist of a shunt with converging feeding vessels arising from radiculomeningeal arteries and draining retrogradely via a radicular vein into the perimedullary veins, thereby causing progressive myelopathy due to venous hypertension in the spinal cord. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the hypothesis that the obstruction of radicular venous outlets could be an additional factor inducing symptomatic venous hypertension due to a decreased outflow in SDAVFs.

METHODS

The authors compared the clinical and imaging findings in patients with asymptomatic SDAVFs identified incidentally at the upper thoracic region with the findings in symptomatic patients who harbored SDAVFs at the same level.

RESULTS

All symptomatic patients presented with medullary dysfunction. The mean age of patients with asymptomatic SDAVF was 51.5 years, approximately 10 years younger than the patients with symptomatic SDAVF (64.1 years old). Despite the existence of dilated perimedullary vessels in the dorsal side of the spinal cord in all patients, the spinal cord edema seen in symptomatic patients was not detected on the MR images obtained in patients with asymptomatic SDAVF. The spinal angiograms of the asymptomatic patients distinctively demonstrated early radicular venous outflow from affected perimedullary veins to the extradural venous plexus as a potential alternate route for the venous hypertension to be released.

CONCLUSIONS

Obstruction of the radicular venous outflow could be an important factor in inducing spinal congestive edema due to venous hypertension, as well as subsequent clinical symptoms of SDAVFs.

Neuroimaging in acute transverse myelitis

Transverse myelitis is an acute inflammatory condition. A relatively rare condition, the diversity of causes makes it an important diagnostic challenge. An approach to the classification and work-up standardizes diagnostic criteria and terminology to facilitate clinical research, and forms a useful tool in the clinical work-up for patients at presentation. Its pathogenesis can be grouped into four categories. Imaging appearances can be nonspecific; however, the morphology of cord involvement, enhancement pattern, and presence of coexistent abnormalities on MR imaging can provide clues as to the causes. Neuroimaging is important in identifying subgroups that may benefit from specific treatment.

Spinal extradural arteriovenous fistulas: a clinical and radiological description of different types and their novel treatment with Onyx

Object

Spinal extradural (epidural) arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are uncommon vascular lesions of the spine with arteriovenous shunting located primarily in the epidural venous plexus. Understanding the complex anatomical variations of these uncommon lesions is important for management. The authors describe the different types of spinal extradural AVFs and their endovascular management using Onyx.

Methods

Eight spinal extradural AVFs in 7 patients were studied using MR imaging, spinal angiography, and dynamic CT (DynaCT) between 2005 and 2009. Special consideration was given to the anatomy, pattern of venous drainage, and mass effect upon the nerve roots, spinal cord, and vertebrae.

Results

The neuroaxial location of the 8 spinal extradural AVFs was lumbosacral in 1 patient, lumbar in 4 patients, thoracic in 2 patients, and cervical in 1 patient. Spinal extradural AVFs were divided into 3 types. In Type A spinal extradural AVFs, arteriovenous shunting occurs in the epidural space and these types have an intradural draining vein causing venous hypertension and spinal cord edema with associated myelopathy or cauda equina syndrome. Type B1 malformations are confined to the epidural space with no intradural draining vein, causing compression of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots with myelopathy and/or radiculopathy. Type B2 malformations are also confined to the epidural space with no intradural draining vein and no mass effect, and are asymptomatic. There were 4 Type A spinal extradural AVFs, 3 Type B1s, and 1 Type B2. Onyx was used in all cases for embolization. Follow-up at 6–24 months showed that 4 patients experienced excellent recovery. Three patients with Type A spinal extradural AVFs attained good motor recovery but experienced persistent bladder and/or bowel problems.

Conclusions

The current description of the different types of spinal extradural AVFs can help in understanding their pathophysiology and guide management. DynaCT was found to be useful in understanding the complex anatomy of these lesions. Endovascular treatment with Onyx is a good alternative for spinal extradural AVF management.

Sacral Intradural Arteriovenous Fistula Treated Indirectly by Transection of the Filum Terminale: Technical Case Report

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE:

Type A intradural arteriovenous fistulae of the sacral filum terminale are rare lesions fed primarily by the distal anterior spinal artery. The artery is frequently too narrow or tortuous for endovascular obliteration, and direct surgical resection of the fistula requires an invasive sacrectomy. We present a less invasive indirect surgical approach through an L4 laminectomy and transection of the filum terminale rostral to the fistula.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION:

A 62-year-old man presented with a 6-month history of progressive bilateral lower extremity paresthesias and weakness and associated incontinence and impotence. Spinal magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated perimedullary flow voids. Selective spinal angiography revealed a fistula at S2-3 between the distal anterior spinal artery and an early draining vein returning cranially along the filum terminale, diagnostic of an intradural arteriovenous fistula. An L4 laminectomy and transection of the filum terminale rostral to the lesion were performed to disrupt the medullary arterial supply to the intradural fistula and outflow to the medullary venous plexus of the spinal cord. At 10-month clinical follow, up the patient had regained bowel and bladder continence, was able to ambulate with a cane, and reported subjective improvement of lower extremity paresthesias. Selective spinal angiography at 1 year demonstrated no residual arteriovenous shunt.

CONCLUSION:

Pathological venous hypertension of a type A intradural arteriovenous fistula of the sacral filum terminale can be treated by transection of the filum terminale at L4. This avoids posterior partial sacrectomy required for direct resection; however, subsequent clinical follow-up is necessary to monitor for reconstitution.