Management and outcome of vein of Galen malformation

N McSweeney1, S Brew, S Bhate

  • 1The Wolfson Centre, Mecklenburgh Square, London, UK.

Insights

Endovascular treatment has improved outcomes for children with vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation (VGM). A multidisciplinary team approach is crucial for treatment decisions in pediatric VGM cases.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurosurgery
  • Vascular Malformations
  • Interventional Neuroradiology

Background:

  • Vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation (VGM) is a rare cerebrovascular disorder in infants.
  • Historically, VGM carried a poor prognosis due to high rates of heart failure and neurological deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the outcomes of endovascular treatment for pediatric VGM.
  • To assess the neurodevelopmental status of survivors treated for VGM.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of case notes and neuroimaging for children treated between 2003 and 2008.
  • Analysis of treatment strategies and associated outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Twenty-eight of 33 children underwent endovascular treatment.
  • Seven children died; 13 survivors (39%) were neurodevelopmentally intact, 7 (21%) had mild impairment, and 6 (18%) had significant impairment.
  • No clear clinical or radiological predictors of outcome were identified.

Conclusions:

  • Endovascular treatment has significantly improved the prognosis for children with VGM.
  • Multidisciplinary team expertise is essential for optimizing treatment decisions and timing.
Abstract

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