Imaging of cerebral arteriovenous malformations and dural arteriovenous fistulas

Neurosurg Clin N Am. 2012 Jan;23(1):27-42. doi: 10.1016/j.nec.2011.09.007.

Abstract

Imaging plays a major role in the identification, grading, and treatment of cerebral arteriovenous malformations and cerebral dural arteriovenous fistulas. Digital subtraction angiography is the gold standard in the diagnosis and characterization of these vascular malformations, but advances in both magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography, including advanced imaging techniques, have provided new tools for further characterizing these lesions as well as the surrounding brain structures that may be affected. This article discusses the role of conventional as well as advanced imaging modalities that are providing novel ways to characterize these vascular malformations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiography, Digital Subtraction
  • Arteriovenous Fistula / diagnosis
  • Arteriovenous Fistula / diagnostic imaging*
  • Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations / diagnosis
  • Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cerebral Arteries / diagnostic imaging
  • Cerebral Veins / diagnostic imaging
  • Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
  • Diffusion Tensor Imaging
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / diagnosis
  • Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformations / diagnostic imaging*
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed