Iatrogenic arteriovenous fistula presenting as a recurrent subdural hematoma. Case report

An unusual case of an iatrogenic dural arteriovenous fistula is reported. The patient presented with a history of progressive generalized headache over a period of 3 to 4 weeks. Computerized tomography demonstrated a chronic subdural hematoma that was successfully evacuated by burr-hole drainage. The patient's postoperative course was complicated by recurrent acute subdural hematomas at the drainage site. Coagulation studies were unremarkable. Selective external carotid angiography demonstrated a small dural arteriovenous fistula adjacent to the burr hole used for the initial operative procedure. Extension of the bone flap and coagulation of the fistula resulted in a good outcome. In the patient with recurrent acute subdural hematoma, the possibility of a vascular malformation must be considered. Selective internal and external carotid angiography is key to the correct diagnosis.