Recurrence of "cured" dural arteriovenous fistulas after Onyx embolization

From Diagnosis to Complication: A Detailed Case Analysis on the Journey of Managing Medial Tentorial Dural Arteriovenous Fistula

Tentorial dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) are rare but highly dangerous vascular anomalies, constituting a small percentage of all intracranial DAVFs. Despite their infrequency, these lesions display aggressive characteristics, frequently leading to hemorrhage or neurological deficits due to their retrograde drainage into leptomeningeal veins, thus classifying them as Borden type III lesions. This case presents a middle-aged man who suffered cerebellar and subarachnoid hemorrhages resulting from a medial tentorial DAVF. Initial imaging revealed a high-flow vascular lesion, which was subsequently confirmed through angiography. Endovascular embolization targeted the right middle meningeal artery, showing initial improvement. However, the patient experienced a notable decline two days later, attributed to residual or recurrent fistulas, venous hypertension, and cerebral edema. Effective management of tentorial DAVFs necessitates a multidisciplinary approach, combining endovascular, surgical, and occasionally radiosurgical techniques. Continuous monitoring is essential for early detection and management of complications. This case underscores the critical need for a comprehensive strategy to manage the high risks associated with these vascular anomalies and to prevent potentially life-threatening outcomes.

Surgical evolution in spinal dural arteriovenous fistula treatment-a 7 years monocentric experience

Accounting for 70% of all spinal vascular malformations, spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVF) are the most common type of malformation. Interruption of the fistulous arterialized vein point is the goal of surgical treatment. The aim of the study was to compare open surgery (laminectomy) versus minimal invasive surgery (MIS) in SDAVF treatment. Between March 2013 and March 2020, we retrospectively collected 21 consecutive adult patients with SDAVF. Since March 2017, MIS has been routinely used for surgical treatment. Pre- and post-operative clinical evaluations used Aminoff-Logue score (ALS). Complication rate was noted. Post-operative occlusion of the malformation was confirmed by digital subtraction angiography (DSA) in all patients. MIS was compared to open surgery in terms of efficacy and complications with statistical evaluation. Standard laminectomy was performed in 12 patients and MIS technique in 9 patients. No difference was noted on pre-operative parameters. ALS and MRI signs of myelopathy were improved in all cases except for 1 patient in each group. All SDAVFs were excluded based on post-operative DSA. Significant differences were noted between the 2 groups in terms of perioperative blood loss (p<0.001), post-operative pain visual analog scale values (p<0.001), and first time out of bed (p<0.001). Wrong level surgery occurred in one patient in each group; patients were re-operated using the same technique. No infection or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak was noted. In our experience, MIS is a safe alternative to open laminectomy for SDAVF treatment. MIS contributes to patient comfort and minimizes blood loss without increasing complication rate.

Clinical and prognostic features of venous hypertensive myelopathy from craniocervical arteriovenous fistulas: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Current knowledge about venous hypertensive myelopathy (VHM) is incomplete. This study was performed with the aim of clarifying the clinical features and outcomes of craniocervical VHM.

METHODS

This retrospective, single-center cohort study included 65 patients with craniocervical junction arteriovenous fistulas resulting in VHM treated in Xuanwu Hospital from January 1, 2002, to December 30, 2020. All patients underwent microsurgery or endovascular treatment. The primary outcome was neurological function assessment using the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scale, modified Aminoff-Logue Scale (mALS), and Venous Hypertensive Myelopathy Scale (VHMS). The secondary outcomes were recurrences and postoperative adverse events. Pearson linear regression and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the relationships among the three scales. Kaplan-Meier and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to predict outcomes.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 57.4 ± 11.4 years, and 88% of patients were male. The 1-year follow-up rate was 83.1%, and the 5-year follow-up rate was 50.8%. The VHMS was correlated with the JOA (R2 = 0.6722) and mALS (R2 = 0.7399) and increased the assessment accuracy by approximately 20% when compared with the other two scales. Overall, 25.9% of patients experienced delayed neurological decline beyond the 1-year follow-up. Further logistic regression suggested that age > 65 years was an independent predictor (OR 7.831, 95% CI 1.090-56.266; p = 0.041). Embolic recanalization and new bilateral symmetry feeders were the major reasons for recurrence. Recurrence increased the risk of adverse events after the second surgery (OR 20.455, 95% CI 1.170-357.320; p = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

CCJ AVFs resulting in VHM are a rare but deadly complication, and providers should be cautious of age-related delayed neurological decline and strive for a one-time anatomical cure.

Dural arteriovenous fistula of the torcular herophili presenting with hydrocephalus and venous congestion in an 8-month-old child: A case report

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) are direct communication between the dural arterial and venous systems. They are more common in adults. In children, they are relatively rare. Hydrocephalus is a common problem in pediatrics with a variety of causes. However, very few cases of hydrocephalus as a complication of DAVF have been reported in the literature. This case describes an 8-month-old male child with a large DAVF at the torcular herophili who presented with regression of milestones and hydrocephalus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on admission showed triventricular hydrocephalus and a massively dilated torcular with a compressed fourth ventricle. Angiography confirmed the presence of a DAVF at the torcula with arterial feeders from the posterior circulation. Endovascular embolization was performed with >80% embolization of the fistula with no complications. Control MRI immediately postoperative was acceptable. No cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion was performed. At a 3-month follow-up, the child had attained all developmental milestones for age. MRI showed normal CSF dynamics and a further reduction in the size of the torcula. Despite being rare, DAVFs should be considered as a possible cause of pediatric hydrocephalus, and treating them can lead to a resolution of the mechanisms inducing hydrocephalus. CSF shunting should be reserved for those cases with persistent hydrocephalus and raised intracranial pressure despite endovascular treatment.

Recurrence after cure in cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas: a collaborative effort by the Consortium for Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Outcomes Research (CONDOR)

OBJECTIVE

Cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) are often treated with endovascular therapy, but occasionally a multimodality approach including surgery and/or radiosurgery is utilized. Recurrence after an initial angiographic cure has been reported, with estimated rates ranging from 2% to 14.3%, but few risk factors have been identified. The objective of this study was to identify risk factors associated with recurrence of dAVF after putative cure.

METHODS

The Consortium for Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Outcomes Research (CONDOR) data were retrospectively reviewed. All patients with angiographic cure after treatment and subsequent angiographic follow-up were included. The primary outcome was recurrence, with risk factor analysis. Secondary outcomes included clinical outcomes, morbidity, and mortality associated with recurrence. Risk factor analysis was performed comparing the group of patients who experienced recurrence with those with durable cure (regardless of multiple recurrences). Time-to-event analysis was performed using all collective recurrence events (multiple per patients in some cases).

RESULTS

Of the 1077 patients included in the primary CONDOR data set, 457 met inclusion criteria. A total of 32 patients (7%) experienced 34 events of recurrence at a mean of 368.7 days (median 192 days). The recurrence rate was 4.5% overall. Kaplan-Meier analysis predicted long-term recurrence rates approaching 11% at 3 years. Grade III dAVFs treated with endovascular therapy were statistically significantly more likely to experience recurrence than those treated surgically (13.3% vs 0%, p = 0.0001). Tentorial location, cortical venous drainage, and deep cerebral venous drainage were all risk factors for recurrence. Endovascular intervention and radiosurgery were associated with recurrence. Six recurrences were symptomatic, including 2 with hemorrhage, 3 with nonhemorrhagic neurological deficit, and 1 with progressive flow-related symptoms (decreased vision).

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrence of dAVFs after putative cure can occur after endovascular treatment. Risk factors include tentorial location, cortical venous drainage, and deep cerebral drainage. Multimodality therapy can be used to achieve cure after recurrence. A delayed long-term angiographic evaluation (at least 1 year from cure) may be warranted, especially in cases with risk factors for recurrence.

Dural arteriovenous fistulas without cortical venous drainage: presentation, treatment, and outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Current evidence suggests that intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) without cortical venous drainage (CVD) have a benign clinical course. However, no large study has evaluated the safety and efficacy of current treatments and their impact over the natural history of dAVFs without CVD.

METHODS

The authors conducted an analysis of the retrospectively collected multicenter Consortium for Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Outcomes Research (CONDOR) database. Patient demographics and presenting symptoms, angiographic features of the dAVFs, and treatment outcomes of patients with Borden type I dAVFs were reviewed. Clinical and radiological follow-up information was assessed to determine rates of new intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) or nonhemorrhagic neurological deficit (NHND), worsening of venous hyperdynamic symptoms (VHSs), angiographic recurrence, and progression or spontaneous regression of dAVFs over time.

RESULTS

A total of 342 patients/Borden type I dAVFs were identified. The mean patient age was 58.1 ± 15.6 years, and 62% were women. The mean follow-up time was 37.7 ± 54.3 months. Of 230 (67.3%) treated dAVFs, 178 (77%) underwent mainly endovascular embolization, 11 (4.7%) radiosurgery alone, and 4 (1.7%) open surgery as the primary modality. After the first embolization, most dAVFs (47.2%) achieved only partial reduction in early venous filling. Multiple complementary interventions increased complete obliteration rates from 37.9% after first embolization to 46.7% after two or more embolizations, and 55.2% after combined radiosurgery and open surgery. Immediate postprocedural complications occurred in 35 dAVFs (15.2%) and 6 (2.6%) with permanent sequelae. Of 127 completely obliterated dAVFs by any therapeutic modality, 2 (1.6%) showed angiographic recurrence/recanalization at a mean of 34.2 months after treatment. Progression to Borden-Shucart type II or III was documented in 2.2% of patients and subsequent development of a new dAVF in 1.6%. Partial spontaneous regression was found in 22 (21.4%) of 103 nontreated dAVFs. Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that older age, NHND, or severe venous-hyperdynamic symptoms at presentation and infratentorial location were associated with worse prognosis. Kaplan-Meier curves showed no significant difference for stable/improved symptoms survival probability in treated versus nontreated dAVFs. However, estimated survival times showed better trends for treated dAVFs compared with nontreated dAVFs (288.1 months vs 151.1 months, log-rank p = 0.28). This difference was statistically significant for treated dAVFs with 100% occlusion (394 months, log-rank p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Current therapeutic modalities for management of dAVFs without CVD may provide better symptom control when complete angiographic occlusion is achieved.

Intracranial Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas with Cortical Venous Drainage: Radiosurgery as an Effective Alternative Treatment

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical and radiological outcome of Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKS) in treatment of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) with cortical venous drainage (CVD) and compare it with the outcome of endovascular therapy.

METHODS

Patients who underwent GKS or endovascular therapy for intracranial DAVF with CVD over 10 years (January 2007 to December 2016) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, were included. Demographics, clinical presentation, imaging details, and follow-up clinical status were reviewed retrospectively. Clinical follow-up was conducted once every 6 months. Radiological follow-up using digital subtraction angiography was performed at a mean 24 months after intervention. Patients with clinical follow-up of <1 year were excluded from the study.

RESULTS

The study included 35 patients (26 in embolization group and 9 in GKS group) who had intracranial DAVF with CVD were included in the study. Clinical improvement was seen in 77.78% of the patients who received GKS and 57.7% of the patients who underwent embolization (P = 0.431). Complete obliteration of DAVF was seen in 55.56% of the patients in the GKS group and 57.7% of the patients in the embolization group (P = 1). GKS was at least as effective as embolization in terms of clinical and radiological outcome in treatment of intracranial DAVF with CVD.

CONCLUSIONS

Contrary to popular perception, GKS should be considered as an effective first-line treatment alternative of intracranial DAVF with CVD.

Giant dural arteriovenous fistula in an infant

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) are commonly encountered by the neurosurgeon. Herein, we present a case illustration of an infant presenting with an extremely large fistula that took up a significant part of the intracranial volume. A one-month-old female presented with irritability and failure to thrive. She was the product of a 35-week pregnancy and was delivered vaginally without complications or a difficult labor. Based on the findings of magnetic resonance imaging, the diagnosis of a giant dAVF involving the transerve-sigmoid sinuses was made. The patient was scheduled for an arteriogram but died before the procedure could be performed. Such a case illustrates how large some dAVF can become and at a very early age. As in the present case, the patient was minimally symptomatic. Therefore, the time to intervention after diagnosis is thus, sometimes, critical.

Endovascular embolization of high-grade cerebral dural arteriovenous fistulas - assessment of long-term recurrences

INTRODUCTION

Endovascular therapy has shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of cerebral dural arteriovenous fistulas; however, recurrence after complete occlusion is not uncommon, and the timing of recurrence remains unknown.

METHODS

A retrospective single-center cohort study was conducted from January 2005 to December 2020. Patients with high-grade (≥Borden II-Cognard IIB) dural arteriovenous fistulas treated with endovascular therapy were included in this study. Clinical and angiographic characteristics were collected for hospitalization and at follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 51 patients with a median age of 61 years were studied; 57% were female. High-flow symptoms related to the high-flow fistula were the most common presentation (67%), and 24% presented with intracranial hemorrhage. Transverse-sigmoid (26%) and cavernous (26%) sinuses were the most common dural arteriovenous fistula locations. A total of 40 patients (70%) had middle meningeal arterial feeders and 4 (7%) had deep cerebral venous drainage. The mean number of embolization procedures per patient was 1.4. Transarterial access was the most frequent approach (61%). Onyx alone was the most common embolic agent (26%). Complete occlusion rate was achieved in 46 patients (80.1%). Last mean radiographic follow-up time was 26.7 months for all 57 dural arteriovenous fistulas. Dural arteriovenous fistula recurrence after radiographic resolution at last treatment was seen in six cases (6/46, 13.1%). Mean time for recurrence was 15.8 months. Mean time of last clinical follow-up was 46.1 months for the 51 patients (100%). A total of 10 (20%) experienced any procedural complications, among which two (4%) became major thromboembolic events.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular therapy is safe and effective for the treatment of high-grade dural arteriovenous fistulas. Given the significant recurrence rate of embolized dural arteriovenous fistulas even after 2 years, long-term angiographic follow-up might be needed.

Challenges in Diagnosis and Management of Previously Embolized Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistulae

BACKGROUND

Given the growing prevalence of initial endovascular treatment for type 1 spinal dural arteriovenous fistulae (dAVF), there are an increasing number of patients presenting with progressive symptoms related to recurrent previously embolized spinal dAVF. This study's goal was to identify demographic, clinical, and radiographic variables among patients who have failed embolization of type I spinal dAVF.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 24 consecutive surgeries for type I spinal dAVF performed by the senior author (A.D.L.) identified 5 patients who underwent open surgery for failed embolization. These 5 cases were reviewed for location of fistula, time from embolization to recurrence, preoperative functional status, fistulous point encountered at surgery, and clinical outcome of the patient at 3-month follow-up. A representative example case is reviewed in detail.

RESULTS

The median age at time of recurrence was 63 years (range 51-73 years). The median timing of embolization to recurrence of neurologic symptoms was 5 months (range 1-54) and to surgery 7 months (range 2-60 months). The level of the spinal dAVF was most frequently at T12-L1 (n = 3). Spinal magnetic resonance arteriography led to localization of the spinal dAVF in 2 patients and spinal catheter angiogram in 3 cases. All patients had definitive radiographic cure of the dAVF at last clinical follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The increased use of endovascular treatment of spinal dAVF has led to the treatment of refractory cases with a greater degree of surgical complexity. Open surgical ligation continues to provide the most definitive treatment outcomes for this complex spinal vascular entity.

Long-term stability of Onyx: is there any indication for repeated angiography after dural arteriovenous fistula embolization?

OBJECTIVE

The natural course of dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) is unfavorable. Transarterial embolization with Onyx is currently the therapeutic method of choice, although the long-term stability of Onyx has been questioned. The literature reports a significant difference in the recurrence rate after complete DAVF occlusion and lacks larger series with long-term follow-up. The authors present the largest series to date with a long-term follow-up to determine the stability of Onyx, prospectively comparing magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) as follow-up diagnostic methods.

METHODS

Demographics, clinical symptomatology, length of follow-up, diagnostic methods, and angiographic findings of DAVFs were recorded and retrospectively evaluated in 112 patients. A prospective group of 15 patients with more than 5 years of follow-up after complete DAVF occlusion was established. All 15 patients in the prospective group underwent a clinical examination and MRA; 10 of these patients also underwent DSA. The recurrences and the correlation between the two diagnostic methods were evaluated.

RESULTS

Among the 112 patients, 71 were men and 41 were women, with an average age of 60 years. Intracranial hemorrhage (40%) was the most common clinical presentation of DAVF. At the last follow-up, 73% of the patients experienced clinical improvement, 21% remained unchanged, and 6% worsened. Overall, 87.5% of the DAVFs were occluded entirely with endovascular treatment, and 93% of the DAVFs were classified as cured at the last follow-up (i.e., completely embolized DAVFs and DAVFs that thrombosed spontaneously or after Gamma Knife surgery). Two recurrences of DAVFs were recorded in the entire series. Both were first diagnosed by MRA and confirmed with DSA. The mean follow-up was 27.7 months. In the prospective group, a small asymptomatic recurrence was diagnosed. The mean follow-up of the prospective group was 96 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Onyx is a stable embolic material, although recurrence of seemingly completely occluded DAVFs may develop because of postembolization hemodynamic changes that accentuate primarily graphically absent residual fistula. These residuals can be diagnosed with MRA at follow-up. The authors' data suggest that MRA could be sufficient as the follow-up diagnostic method after complete DAVF occlusion with Onyx. However, larger prospective studies on this topic are needed.

Spinal vascular malformations: Angiographic evaluation and endovascular management

Spinal vascular malformations (SVM) are classified based on their location (intramedullary, perimedullary, radicular, extradural) and flow pattern (high-flow, low-flow, no arteriovenous shunt). High-flow SVMs are generally congenital lesions diagnosed in children and young patients without gender predominance. They present with hemodynamic disturbances, mass effect, or hemorrhages, but may also be discovered incidentally. Low-flow SVMs tend to be acquired lesions presenting in older men with progressive myelopathy caused by spinal venous hypertension. They are rarely associated with vascular syndromes but may accompany prothrombotic conditions. The sensitivity and specificity of conventional MRI are excellent for high-flow SVMs but poor for low-flow lesions, which are frequently diagnosed with extensive delays reducing the potential for favorable outcomes. The sensitivity of advanced MRI techniques remains unclear, notably for the detection of low-flow shunts without flow voids on conventional MRI. Catheter angiography remains the gold standard modality for the evaluation of the spinal vasculature and its disorders. SVMs can be treated by surgical or endovascular means. Initially plagued by high recurrence rates due to inadequate embolization material, endovascular techniques represent nowadays a valid alternative to surgery, thanks notably to the introduction of liquid embolic agents.

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.

Treatment Outcomes of Embolization for Peripheral Arteriovenous Malformations

PURPOSE

To evaluate treatment outcomes of embolization for peripheral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in a tertiary referral center where ethanol is the primary agent of choice.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed of 93 patients (median age, 31 years; range, 2-66 years) with peripheral AVMs treated with embolization (n = 442; median, 2 per patient; range, 1-82) between January 2010 and July 2016. Ethanol was used in most cases (n = 428; 97%). AVMs were classified as type I (n = 3), type II (n = 57), type IIIa (n = 5), type IIIb (n = 15), and type IV (n = 13) according to the Yakes classification system. Effectiveness of embolization was based on AVM devascularization on angiography: 100% (total), 90%-99% (near-total), 70%-90% (substantial), 30%-70% (partial), and 0%-30% (failure). Complications were graded according to the Society of Interventional Radiology classification.

RESULTS

In 69% of patients, 70%-100% devascularization was achieved. Total and near-total occlusion of the nidus were more often achieved in AVMs of types I and IIIa (both 100%) than in AVMs of types II, IIIb, and IV (56%, 67%, and 39%, respectively; P = .019). A total of 109 complications were identified: 101 minor (22.9%) and 8 major (1.8%). Major complications included wounds (n = 5), false aneurysm (n = 1), finger contracture (n = 1), and severe pain (n = 1) requiring therapy. The patient complication risk was significantly affected by the number of procedures (relative risk = 2.0; P < .001). Age, AVM location, and angioarchitecture type did not significantly affect complication risk.

CONCLUSIONS

AVM embolization resulted in 70%-100% devascularization in 69% of patients, with few major complications. This study indicates that the type of AVM angioarchitecture affects the number of procedures needed and the achievability of AVM devascularization.

Gamma Knife Radiosurgery: The Gold Standard Treatment for Intracranial Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas without Cortical Venous Drainage

Context

Endovascular therapy is currently the most common treatment approach for intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF), followed by microsurgery. Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKS) is usually reserved as the last modality of treatment of intracranial DAVF.

Aim

To evaluate the clinical and radiological outcome of GKS in the treatment of DAVF without CVD.

Subjects and Methods

This series includes patients who underwent GKS for intracranial DAVF without CVD over 10 years (Jan 2007 to Dec 2016) in All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. Their demographic profile, clinical presentation, imaging details, GKS details, and follow-up clinical status were obtained retrospectively. Clinical follow-up, along with radiological assessment using MRI every 6 months was done after GKS. DSA was performed once MRI strongly suggested obliteration of DAVF. Patients who had a clinical follow-up of less than 1 year were excluded from the study.

Results

5 patients (4 males and 1 female) who had DAVF without CVD were included the study. The mean age was 44.8 years. All patients had complete obliteration of fistula on digital subtraction angiography (DSA) at a mean duration of 24 months post GKS. All patients had complete resolution of symptoms at the last follow-up.

Conclusions

Gamma Knife surgery is the most effective and the safest treatment modality for dealing with DAVFs without CVD. Instead of reserving it as the last resort for patients with DAVF without CVD, it should be considered as the gold standard treatment for DAVFs without CVD.

Introduction to Diagnostic and Therapeutic Spinal Angiography

This article describes the basic principles of diagnostic and therapeutic spinal angiography as practiced by the author, including catheterization and radioprotection techniques, the selection of endovascular devices and embolization agents, and procedural complications.

Dual-lumen balloon to increase onyx venous penetration in the treatment of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas

PURPOSE

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (sDAVF) are the most common spinal vascular lesions. The arterialization of the recipient vein results in venous hypertension and chronic ischemia. Intravascular injection of acrylic glue in order to occlude the draining vein is the principle of endovascular treatment, but a significant portion of embolization procedures do not succeed. We present our initial experience of endovascular balloon augmented embolization of sDAVF using a dual-lumen balloon.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

Three patients harboring sDAVF were submitted to endovascular treatment by onyx injection assisted by a double-lumen balloon as the sole therapy. Control angiography demonstrated complete obliteration of the fistula in all cases with clinical improvement.

CONCLUSION

Dual-lumen balloon onyx embolization of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas appears to be an acceptable and feasible alternative.

Safety of Onyx Transarterial Embolization of Skull Base Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas from Meningeal Branches of the External Carotids also Fed by Meningeal Branches of Internal Carotid or Vertebral Arteries

PURPOSE

To analyze the angiographic and clinical results of transarterial embolization with Onyx (Medtronic-Covidien, Irvine, CA) in dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) partially fed by arteries arising from the carotid siphon or the vertebral arteries.

METHODS

We isolated 40 DAVFs supplied by either the tentorial artery of the internal carotid artery (ICA) or the posterior meningeal artery of the vertebral artery. These DAVFs were embolized with Onyx through the middle meningeal artery or the occipital artery. We reviewed the occurrence of reflux into the arteries of carotid or vertebral origin.

RESULTS

In all the cases, reflux occurred into the first millimeters of the DAVF arterial feeders arising from carotid or vertebral arteries but slowly enough to be controlled by interruption of Onyx injection. Reflux was always minimal and Onyx never reached the ostium of the arteries. No cerebral ischemic complications occurred in our series.

CONCLUSION

The behavior of Onyx is clearly different from that of cyanoacrylate glue, resulting in superior control during injection. Reflux into arteries arising from the ICA or vertebral artery during DAVF treatment always carries a risk of unintentional non-target embolization of normal cerebral vasculature but Onyx appears to be safe in this situation.

Embolization of a spinal dural arteriovenous fistula with ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (Onyx) using a dual-lumen microballoon catheter and buddy wire technique

Background:

N-butyl 2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) remains the standard embolic agent for spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) treatment. Treatment of SDAVF with ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (Onyx, ev3-Covidien, Irvine CA, USA) is currently not well established. Although several cases have reported the use of Onyx to embolize an intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula using a dual-lumen microballoon catheter, Onyx embolization of an SDAVF using a dual-lumen microballoon catheter has not been reported.

Case Description:

We treated a 57-year-old man with an SDAVF using a dual-lumen microballoon catheter and buddy wire technique to perform transarterial Onyx embolization via the left sixth intercostal artery.

Conclusions:

Onyx embolization using a dual-lumen microballoon catheter was effective. Furthermore, the buddy wire technique was useful for providing rigid support of the microcatheter in a narrow and tortuous intercostal artery.

Spinal extradural arteriovenous fistula with intradural drainage: three surgical cases with long-term follow-up

Spinal extradural arteriovenous fistulas (SEDAVF) with intradural drainage are uncommon vascular lesions that cause venous congestive myelopathy. We present three SEDAVF with intradural drainage treated with surgical disconnection of the intradural drainage via a single level laminectomy, followed by transarterial embolization (TAE) with Onyx if spontaneous thrombosis of the extradural fistula did not occur spontaneously. All patients improved their neurological condition and no congestive myelopathy recurrence was noted after mean follow-up of 84 months. We believe that SEDAVF with intradural drainage constitute a specific entity that should be included in the classifications of spinal arteriovenous malformations.

Endovascular management of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVF) are the most common subset of the larger group of spinal vascular malformations. In this chapter, we discuss the definition, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of spinal dAVF. Special attention is given to clinical approach, imaging, and diagnosis with discussion of newer spinal magnetic resonance angiographic techniques. Endovascular management techniques are discussed, including technical and safety considerations for the performance of spinal angiography and various methods of embolization. Embolization media, including liquid embolics, particles, and coils, are introduced. Finally, clinical and imaging outcomes are discussed with attention to the clinical and imaging findings of dAVF recurrence.

Induced-Wedge Technique to Improve Liquid Embolic Agent Penetration into Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula

OBJECTIVE

To promote embolization of spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) with a small long tortuous feeder that may impede successful application of an embolic agent.

METHODS

An induced-wedge technique was developed in which blood flow was blocked by coiling at the proximal part of the microcatheter for secure injection of N-butyl cyanoacrylate. We used this technique in 11 patients with SDAVF (male/female ratio, 8:3): 7 thoracic, 2 lumbar, 1 sacral, and 1 cervical. Clinical outcome was evaluated by the Aminoff-Logue Disability Scale.

RESULTS

Penetration of embolic agent through the fistula into the vein was complete (n = 5), nearly complete (no penetration of embolic agent into the vein but no residual fistula on 3 adjacent selective angiograms; n = 4), or partial (embolization with a small residual filling of the draining vein; n = 2). All patients improved neurologically during follow-up (median, 18 months; range, 7-37 months) and achieved complete recovery. Of the 2 patients who obtained partial obliteration, one showed disappearance of the residual lesion on angiography 21 months later and the other achieved complete results after repeat embolization.

CONCLUSIONS

The induced-wedge technique can improve SDAVF embolization by providing better penetration of the liquid embolic agent to the fistula and vein.

Long-term angiographic results of endovascularly “cured” intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas

OBJECT

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) are complex lesions consisting of abnormal connections between meningeal arteries and dural venous sinuses and/or cerebral veins. The goal of treatment is surgical or endovascular occlusion of the fistula or fistulous nidus or at least the disconnection of the feeding vessels and the draining veins. Delayed angiographic data on previously embolized dural fistulas is lacking. The authors report their experience and the long-term angiographic results with embolization of intracranial DAVF using Onyx.

METHODS

All cases of DAVF treated primarily with Onyx at the authors’ institution from 2006 to 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics, fistula characteristics, embolization details, and angiographic follow-up were analyzed.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients with DAVFs were treated during the study period. Twenty-two patients were treated with open surgery with or without prior embolization. Thirty-six patients were treated with embolization alone, of whom 26 underwent an attempt at curative embolization and are the subject of this review. All but 2 of these patients were treated in a single session. Angiographic “cure” was achieved in all cases following treatment. Follow-up angiography was performed in 21 patients at a mean of 14 months after treatment (range 2–39 months). Asymptomatic angiographic recurrence of the fistula was evident in 3 of the 21 patients (14.3%). On reviewing the procedural angiograms of the cases in which the DAVFs recurred, it was observed that the Onyx cast did not reach the venous portion in 1 case, whereas it did reach the vein in the other 2 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrence following initial angiographic cure of DAVF is not uncommon. Incomplete penetration of the embolic material into the proximal portion of the venous outlet may lead to delayed recurrence. Long-term angiographic follow-up is highly recommended.

Balloon-Occlusion Catheter Onyx Embolization of a Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Presenting with Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in a Pediatric Patient

OBJECTIVE

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) are insidious pathologies that, if left untreated, harbor potentially devastating consequences to the central nervous system. Spinal DAVFs are rare in the adult population and exceedingly uncommon in the pediatric population. In this report, we describe a spinal DAVF in a 3-year-old child whose initial presentation is subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Balloon-test occlusion and balloon-catheter-assisted embolization of DAVF have not been previously described, and their advantages over alternative embolic and surgical techniques are discussed.

METHODS

We performed a literature search on MEDLINE/PubMed to review current reports describing the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and treatment of spinal DAVFs. In this report, we describe a spinal DAVF in a 3-year-old child whose initial presentation is SAH.

RESULTS

A spinal DAVF was diagnosed after deciding to image not only the brain but also the spine. Using a balloon-occlusion catheter, we confirmed that the DAVF arterial feeding vessel could be safely embolized. We then proceeded to effectively treat the DAVF with balloon-catheter-assisted Onyx-18 embolization.

CONCLUSION

Based on our report and an analysis of the literature, we propose that pediatric patients presenting with nontraumatic SAH should undergo at least a magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and cervical spine as part of their initial workup. In addition, we describe a balloon-occlusion catheter embolization technique that allows not only excellent embolic penetration of the fistula but also prevention of microcatheter reflux and lessening of the need for a tedious plug-and-stack technique.

Onyx versus nBCA and coils in the treatment of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) with cortical venous drainage have significant morbidity and mortality. Complete closure of these lesions is necessary to reduce these risks. The purpose of our study was to compare the outcome of DAVFs treated with Onyx versus those treated with n-Butyl Cyanoacrylate (nBCA) and coil embolization in a case-control study. Compared with nBCA and coil embolization, we hypothesized that Onyx embolization for DAVF is safer and has a higher chance of complete obliteration, with no need for post-embolization surgery for the DAVF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 1998 to 2015, 29 patients who had DAVFs were treated with endovascular embolization. Of these, 24 patients had imaging available for analysis. Successful closure rates, complications, and procedure time were compared between the embolization techniques.

RESULTS

The chance of not requiring post-embolization surgery with Onyx (81.8%) was significantly higher (p = 0.005) than with nBCA (22.22%). The complication rate with Onyx (9.1%) tended to be lower compared with that of nBCA (22.22%; p = 0.37). Procedural time was not significantly different between Onyx (mean 267 minutes) and nBCA (mean 288 minutes) (p = 0.59). The odds ratio of a DAVF being treated with Onyx and then requiring no follow-up surgery was 17.5 (95% CI 1.97-155.4).

CONCLUSION

Our case-control study suggests that Onyx embolization is superior to nBCA and coil embolization in completely obliterating DAVFs, with higher odds of no post-embolization surgery. We also found that Onyx is safe for embolization of DAVFs, with no associated neurological mortality and morbidity.

Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: Imaging Features and Its Mimics

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is the most common spinal vascular malformation, however it is still rare and underdiagnosed. Magnetic resonance imaging findings such as spinal cord edema and dilated and tortuous perimedullary veins play a pivotal role in the confirmation of the diagnosis. However, spinal angiography remains the gold standard in the diagnosis of SDAVF. Classic angiographic findings of SDAVF are early filling of radicular veins, delayed venous return, and an extensive network of dilated perimedullary venous plexus. A series of angiograms of SDAVF at different locations along the spinal column, and mimics of serpentine perimedullary venous plexus on MR images, are demonstrated. Thorough knowledge of SDAVF aids correct diagnosis and prevents irreversible complications.

Microvascular anatomy of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas: arteriovenous connections and their relationships with the dura mater

OBJECT The microvascular anatomy of spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), especially the relationships of the vessels with the dura mater, has yet to be angiographically demonstrated in detail and proven histologically. METHODS From January 2012 through April 2014, a total of 7 patients with spinal dural AVFs in the thoracic region underwent open microsurgical obliteration at Tokyo Metropolitan Neurological Hospital. The microvascular anatomy of spinal dural AVFs was comprehensively assessed by using advanced microangiography, including 3D computer graphics and intraoperative indocyanine green video angiography, and by histological findings. RESULTS The 2 microangiography techniques revealed the spatial course and in vivo blood flow of the meningeal vessels and their relationships with the dura mater in sufficient detail. The meningeal branch of the intercostal artery split into multiple meningeal vessels on the outer dural surface adjacent to the root sleeve. After crossing the dura mater to the inner dural surface, these vessels gathered and joined a single intradural draining vessel. On the inner dural surface, the single draining vessel was fed by the surrounding multiple meningeal vessels, which appeared to be caput medusae. Histological findings revealed that the structure of the meningeal branch of the intercostal artery corresponded to that of a normal artery. The structure of intradural draining vessels corresponded to that of a vein modified by retrograde arterial inflow. On the inner dural surface, more than 1 meningeal artery gathered and joined with the proximal radiculomedullary vein. CONCLUSIONS Spinal dural AVFs are located on the inner dural surface, where multiple direct AV connections between more than 1 meningeal feeding artery and a single proximal radiculomedullary vein occur at the site where the vein connects to the dura mater.

Angioarchitectural evolution of clival dural arteriovenous fistulas in two patients

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) may present in a variety of ways, including as carotid-cavernous sinus fistulas. The ophthalmologic sequelae of carotid-cavernous sinus fistulas are known and recognizable, but less commonly seen is the rare clival fistula. Clival dAVFs may have a variety of potential anatomical configurations but are defined by the involvement of the venous plexus just overlying the bony clivus. Here we present two cases of clival dAVFs that most likely evolved from carotid-cavernous sinus fistulas.

Efficacy and limitations of transarterial acrylic glue embolization for intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas

The efficacy and limitations of transarterial acrylic glue embolization for the treatment of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) were investigated. Thirty-four DAVFs treated by transarterial embolization using n-butyl cyanoacrylate were retrospectively reviewed. The locations of DAVFs were the transverse-sigmoid sinus in 11, tentorium in 10, cranial vault in 9, and superior sagittal sinus, jugular bulb, foramen magnum, and middle cranial fossa in 1 each. Borden classification was type I in 7, type II in 3, and type III in 24. Eight patients had undergone prior transvenous coil embolization. Complete obliteration rate was 56% immediately after embolization, 71% at follow-up angiography, and 85% after additional treatments (1 transvenous embolization and 4 direct surgery). Complications occurred in three patients, consisting of asymptomatic vessel perforations during cannulation in two patients and leakage of contrast medium resulting in medullary infarction in one patient. Transarterial glue embolization is highly effective for Borden type III DAVF with direct cortical venous drainage, but has limitations for Borden type I and II DAVFs in which the affected sinus is part of the normal venous circulation. Onyx is a new liquid embolic material and is becoming the treatment of choice for DAVF. The benefits of glue embolization compared to Onyx embolization are high thrombogenicity, and relatively low risks of cranial nerve palsies and of excessive migration into the draining veins of high flow fistula. Transarterial glue embolization continues to be useful for selected patients, and complete cure can be expected in most patients with fewer complications if combined with transvenous embolization or direct surgery.

Analysis of the embolization spinal dural arteriovenous fistula and surgical treatments on 52 cases of the patients

BACKGROUND

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) highly threatens people's life and health. Effective methods for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease are badly needed in clinical application.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present study was to sum up the diagnosis and treatment method of SDAVF to improve the diagnosis and treatment effect of the disease.

METHODS

The epidemiological data, imaging data, therapeutic methods and postoperative follow-up data of 52 cases of patients with SDAVF received in our hospital in recent 6 years were collected and retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 43 male patients and 9 female patients with ages of 39-77 years and average age of 59.6 years. The course of disease was 1 to 48 months with an average disease course of 14.4 months. All the patients had syndromes of lower limb numbness, pain, weakness and other sensory and movement disorders mostly accompanied with defecation dysfunction. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results demonstrated that spinal cord abnormalities were found in spinal cord, which could be diagnosed by digital subtraction angiography (DSA) examination. There were 40 cases received surgical treatment and there was no recurrence in the follow-up. There were 12 patients received embolotherapy, of whom 3 patients were operated the second time and 2 patients had embolization again. After 0.5-6 years of follow-up, postoperative symptoms of the 40 patients were improved in different degrees. The modified Aminoff-Logue function scoring was significantly decreased after treatment.

CONCLUSION

SDAVF is the easily diagnosed and delayed spinal cord vascular lesions in clinical applications. The diagnosis relies mainly on MRI and DSA examinations. The surgical treatment effect is good and is not easily relapsed. The trauma of the interventional embolization treatment is small, but the recurrence rate is high.

Mid- and long-term outcomes of carotid-cavernous fistula endovascular management with Onyx and n-BCA: experience of a single tertiary center

INTRODUCTION

Endovascular therapy is the preferred treatment for most carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs). Early reports have documented excellent initial clinical and radiographic outcomes after embolization of CCFs with Onyx or n-butyl cyanoacrylate (n-BCA), but little evidence is available about the long-term durability of this technique.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the long-term durability of CCF liquid embolization.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed a database of 24 CCFs in 21 consecutive patients who underwent Onyx or n-BCA embolization of a CCF from 2006 to 2013 at our institution.

RESULTS

A total of 25 Onyx or n-BCA embolization procedures were attempted and 24 successfully completed during the study, resulting in complete or near-complete occlusion by the end of the study in all 24 CCFs (obliteration success, 100%). Attempted embolization in a single CCF failed initially, but was performed successfully at a later date by a different approach. None of the 24 CCFs recanalized, regrew, or required any further treatment subsequent to Onyx or n-BCA embolization throughout a mean 12.4 months of angiographic follow-up (range 1-36 months). Clinically significant complications were seen in three embolization procedures, including cranial nerve palsies (n=1), embolic infarct (n=1), and intraperitoneal hemorrhage (n=1).

CONCLUSIONS

Early evidence has indicated that endovascular embolization with Onyx is relatively safe and effective at achieving an initial angiographic cure for CCFs. Results of our series suggest that angiographic and clinical outcomes of Onyx and n-BCA embolization remain stable at mid- and long-term follow-up.

Transarterial onyx embolization of cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas: long-term follow-up

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Endovascular therapy with liquid embolic agents is a common treatment strategy for cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas. This study evaluated the long-term effectiveness of transarterial Onyx as the single embolic agent for curative embolization of noncavernous cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 40 consecutive patients with 41 cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas treated between March 2006 and June 2012 by using transarterial Onyx embolization with intent to cure. The mean age was 57 years; one-third presented with intracranial hemorrhage. Most (85%) had cortical venous drainage. Once angiographic cure was achieved, long-term treatment effectiveness was assessed with DSA and clinical follow-up.

RESULTS

Forty-nine embolization sessions were performed; 85% of cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas were treated in a single session. The immediate angiographic cure rate was 95%. The permanent neurologic complication rate was 2% (mild facial palsy). Thirty-five of the 38 patients with initial cure underwent short-term follow-up DSA (median, 4 months). The short-term recurrence rate was only 6% (2/35). All patients with occlusion at short-term DSA undergoing long-term DSA (median, 28 months) had durable occlusion. No patient with long-term clinical follow-up (total, 117 patient-years; median, 45 months) experienced hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS

Transarterial embolization with Onyx as the single embolic agent results in durable long-term cure of noncavernous cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas. Recurrence rates are low on short-term follow-up, and all patients with angiographic occlusion on short-term DSA follow-up have experienced a durable long-term cure. Thus, angiographic cure should be defined at short-term follow-up angiography instead of at the end of the final embolization session. Finally, long-term DSA follow-up may not be necessary if occlusion is demonstrated on short-term angiographic follow-up.

The usefulness of subcutaneous infiltration of epinephrine-containing lidocaine for curative transarterial embolization of dural arteriovenous fistula. A technical note

Recently, transarterial embolization (TAE) with liquid embolic materials has been recognized as one of the curative therapeutic options for non-sinus type dural arteriovenous fistula (d-AVF). To prevent glue fragmentation and incomplete obliteration, flow reduction of transosseous high-flow feeders is one of the key points of this therapy. However, flow reduction of transosseous feeders is sometimes difficult with previously reported techniques such as particle embolization, manual compression, or proximal balloon occlusion. This report introduces a new technique to reduce the flow of transosseous feeders using epinephrine-containing lidocaine, and describes a case of intracranial d-AVF successfully treated with this technique. The usefulness and efficacy of the technique are discussed.

Embolization of spinal dural arteriovenous fistula via the retrocorporeal artery: case report

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

The goal of spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) treatment is to permanently occlude the proximal draining vein and the fistula itself, which can be achieved by open surgery or endovascular treatment. The endovascular approach is currently the primary treatment, but it requires the presence of an access as close to the site of the fistula as possible. This case illustrates that the retrocorporeal artery may be an alternative option in case of previous embolization failure with proximal occlusion of the radicular arteries.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

A 54-year-old man presented with an 18-month history of progressive paraparesis secondary to right L2 spinal DAVF. The first endovascular treatment failed to achieve occlusion of the fistula via the ipsilateral L2 and L3 radicular arteries. Given the proximal occlusion of these feeders during the first embolization, the dilated retrocorporeal arteries were approached via the contralateral L2 and L3 radicular arteries. Complete occlusion of the fistula was achieved with Onyx in a single session with progressive improvement of preoperative neurological deficit.

CONCLUSION

The retrocorporeal artery may provide a safe alternative approach to spinal DAVFs in cases in which a conventional endovascular approach failed, thus avoiding invasive surgical treatment.

Mid and long term outcomes of dural arteriovenous fistula endovascular management with Onyx. Experience of a single tertiary center

INTRODUCTION

The natural history of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) with cortical venous drainage is unfavorable, and treatment is recommended in most cases. Early reports have documented excellent initial clinical and radiographic outcomes after Onyx embolization of DAVFs but little evidence is available regarding the long term durability of this technique.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed a database of 63 DAVFs in 53 consecutive patients who underwent Onyx embolization of a DAVF between 2001 and 2012 at our institution. Cognard types I and III were seen most commonly.

RESULTS

A total of 72 Onyx embolization procedures were successfully completed during the study period, resulting in complete or near complete occlusion by the end of the study period in 58 (92.1%) DAVFs. For DAVFs in which complete or near complete obliteration was attained, stability of obliteration at 6, 12, 24, and 46 months was 100%, 95.4%, 93.8%, and 92.3%, respectively. DAVF recanalization/regrowth was discovered on delayed follow-up angiography in only five instances in which immediate post-embolization angiography revealed complete obliteration. Complications were seen in seven embolization procedures and included cranial nerve palsies (n=3), embolic infarcts (n=2), intraparenchymal hemorrhage (n=1), and unintentional stent deployment (n=1).

CONCLUSIONS

Early evidence has indicated that endovascular Onyx embolization is safe and effective at achieving an initial angiographic cure. Results of our series suggest that angiographic and clinical outcomes of Onyx embolization remain relatively stable at mid and long term follow-up.

Multimodal endovascular treatment of a vertebrovertebral fistula presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage and hydrocephalus

Vertebrovertebral fistulae are rare vascular malformations that uncommonly can rupture to present clinically as intracranial subarachnoid hemorrhage. We report a 69-year-old man presenting following spontaneous apoplectic collapse. Initial workup revealed diffuse, intracranial subarachnoid hemorrhage, intraventricular hemorrhage and hydrocephalus. However, the etiology was not apparent on CT angiography of the head. Catheter-based angiography was performed, demonstrating a single-hole, high-flow vertebrovertebral fistula, arising from the V2 segment and decompressing into both cervical and skull base venous structures. Definitive treatment consisted of endovascular fistula obliteration with a combination of coil and liquid embolic material. The patient made a full neurological recovery. High cervical and skull base fistulae are rare causes of intracranial hemorrhage; endovascular treatment is effective at disconnection of the arteriovenous shunt.

Subarachnoid hemorrhage from a thoracic radicular artery pseudoaneurysm after methamphetamine and synthetic cannabinoid abuse: case report

Background Context Isolated spinal artery aneurysms not associated with vascular malformations are exceedingly rare. Purpose To present a rare case of subarachnoid hemorrhage after thoracic radiculomedullary artery pseudoaneurysm rupture in a patient who abused synthetic cannabinoids and methamphetamines. Study Design Case report. Methods A 41-year-old man with a history of polysubstance abuse presented with acute-onset headache, back pain, and transient bilateral lower-extremity numbness. He reported daily use of the synthetic cannabinoid "Spice." He denied use of other illegal drugs, but laboratory testing was positive for methamphetamines. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a focal hematoma at T2-3, and spinal angiography was negative for vascular abnormalities; however, a follow-up angiogram 6 days later revealed interval development of an irregular dilation of the left T3 radiculomedullary artery originating from the left supreme intercostal artery. Results Surgical trapping and resection of the lesion yielded a good clinical outcome. Conclusions Although two previous case reports have described patients with thoracic radiculomedullary pseudoaneurysm causing spinal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), this is the first reported case associated with synthetic cannabinoids and methamphetamine abuse. Although this diagnosis is exceptionally rare, clinical presentation of SAH with associated back pain and lower-extremity symptoms warrants an aggressive imaging workup. Even in the setting of negative angiography, repeat cerebral and spinal angiograms may be necessary to identify a potentially treatable cause of spinal SAH.

Down but not out

A 20-year-old Hispanic man with Down syndrome presented with progressively worsening headache, fluctuating decreased vision, and bilateral optic disk edema. Magnetic resonance imaging of the head showed an empty sella, and magnetic resonance venography showed thrombosis of left transverse and sigmoid sinuses. Catheter angiography angiogram showed a dural arteriovenous fistula in the wall of left transverse and sigmoid sinuses. The patient underwent Onyx endovascular embolization of the fistula, resulting in its angiographic obliteration, followed by resolution of his clinical signs and symptoms.