Intracranial Vascular Abnormalities in Children

Congenital Intracranial Vascular Malformations in Children : Radiological Overview

Prompt medical attention is crucial for congenital intracranial vascular malformations in children and newborns due to potential severe outcomes. Imaging is pivotal for accurate identification, given the diverse risks and treatment strategies. This article aims to enhance the identification and understanding of congenital intracranial vascular abnormalities including arteriovenous malformation, arteriovenous fistula, cavernous malformation, capillary telangiectasia, developmental venous anomaly, and sinus pericranii in pediatric patients.

Evolution of clinical and translational advances in the management of pediatric arteriovenous malformations

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) represent one of the most challenging diagnoses in pediatric neurosurgery. Until recently, the majority of AVMs was only identified after hemorrhage and primarily treated with surgery. However, recent advances in a wide range of fields-imaging, surgery, interventional radiology, radiation therapy, and molecular biology-have profoundly advanced the understanding and therapy of these complex lesions. Here we review the progress made in pediatric AVMs with a specific focus on innovations relevant to clinical care.

Pediatric Interventional Neuroradiology: Opportunities and Challenges

Pediatric interventional neuroradiology (PINR) is a relatively new field of diagnostic and therapeutic care in the pediatric population that has seen considerable advances in recent decades. However, it is still lagging behind adult interventional neuroradiology due to a variety of reasons, including the lack of evidence validating pediatric-specific procedures, the relative absence of pediatric-specific equipment, and the challenges in establishing and maintaining PINR competencies in a relatively small number of cases. Despite these challenges, the number and variety of PINR procedures are expanding for a variety of indications, including unique pediatric conditions, and are associated with reduced morbidity and psychological stigma. Continued technological advances, such as improved catheter and microwire designs and novel embolic agents, are also contributing to the growth of the field. This review aims to increase awareness of PINR and provide an overview of the current evidence base for minimally invasive neurological interventions in children. Important considerations, such as sedation, contrast agent use, and radiation protection, will also be discussed, taking into account the distinct characteristics of the pediatric population. The review highlights the usefulness and benefits of PINR and emphasizes the need for ongoing research and development to further advance this field.