ABSTRACT
Spinal cord vascular malformations are often a cause of spinal myelopathy. Endovascular
surgical approaches to spinal cord vascular malformations have become an important
adjunct and often the primary treatment of these disorders. Spinal cord vascular malformations
may be divided into several categories based on their anatomy and location. They may
present with a wide range of symptoms far removed from the vascular pathology. Early
recognition and treatment can effect a better outcome and often reverse presenting
neurologic deficits. Emerging magnetic resonance imaging techniques allow visualization
of flow voids, some vascular anatomy, and intramedullary pathology and are a good
screening modality. However, selective diagnostic spinal angiography remains the study
of choice to diagnose and elaborate on the anatomy and potential treatment protocols.
Rapidly evolving endovascular techniques and technology are revolutionizing the treatment
of vascular pathology in the central nervous system, either as an adjunct to traditional
neurosurgical techniques or as definitive therapy. We review the diagnosis and treatment
options for spinal cord vascular malformations.
KEYWORDS
Spinal arteriovenous malformations - spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas - embolization
- endovascular - spinal angiography - paravertebral vascular malformations
