Cervical spinal arteriovenous fistula with ventral perimedullary venous drainage

Acta Neurochir (Wien). 2020 Apr;162(4):961-965. doi: 10.1007/s00701-019-04116-8. Epub 2019 Nov 23.

Abstract

Background: Spinal arteriovenous fistula (AVF) represents the most common type of spinal vascular lesions and is often associated with progressive neurological dysfunction.

Method: Here, we present a unique case of a spinal vascular malformation that does not fit the traditional classification schemes. The patient presented with progressive neurologic deficits resembling partial Brown-Sequard syndrome and was subsequently found to have a lesion resembling type I spinal AVF. However, this intradural fistula drained into the ventral venous plexus rather than dorsal.

Conclusion: Recognizing these rare anatomical variants is paramount in achieving successful obliteration and improved functional outcome for patients.

Keywords: Arteriovenous fistula; Microsurgery; Spinal fistula; Venous plexus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Arteriovenous Fistula / surgery*
  • Drainage / adverse effects
  • Drainage / methods*
  • Humans
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / adverse effects
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / methods*
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control*
  • Spinal Cord / surgery*