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Published on: October 20, 2017
Classification and endovascular management of pediatric cerebral vascular malformations
Timo Krings1, Sasikhan Geibprasert, Karel Terbrugge
1Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, 399 Bathurst Street, 3MCL-429, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada. timo.krings@uhn.on.ca
Insights
Pediatric central nervous system vascular malformations require specific classification. Etiologic classification offers new insights into these rare conditions, guiding future targeted treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Surgery
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Pediatric central nervous system (CNS) vascular malformations present distinct characteristics compared to adult counterparts.
- Current classification systems are diverse, relying on factors like symptoms, age, morphology, or presumed cause.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing classification schemes for pediatric CNS vascular malformations.
- To discuss endovascular management strategies for these complex conditions.
- To explore the potential of an etiologic classification for enhanced understanding and future treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pediatric CNS vascular malformations.
- Analysis of different classification approaches.
- Overview of current endovascular treatment modalities.
Main Results:
- Pediatric CNS vascular malformations necessitate distinct diagnostic and therapeutic considerations.
- An etiologic classification may illuminate the underlying causes and developmental timing of these malformations.
- Endovascular techniques are effective and safe for managing many pediatric vascular diseases.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the etiology of pediatric CNS vascular malformations is crucial for advancing treatment strategies.
- Endovascular management offers promising clinical outcomes for these rare pediatric neurological conditions.
Abstract:
Pediatric vascular malformations of the central nervous system differ from those seen in adults. Their classification may be based on symptoms, pathomechanics, patient's age, morphologic features, or presumed etiology. This review describes the different classification schemes and the endovascular management options of these rare and challenging diseases. The proposed etiologic classification of pediatric vascular malformations may add to our understanding of these diseases in general because the phenotypic expression of a given vascular malformation can shed light on the nature and timing of the causative agent, thereby potentially opening up treatment modalities in the future that are directed against the triggering event rather than against the clinical manifestations or the morphologic appearance. With current endovascular methods, most vascular diseases can be approached safely and with good clinical results.
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