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Updated: May 6, 2026

Comprehensive Endovascular and Open Surgical Management of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations
Published on: October 20, 2017
Cerebral arteriovenous shunts in children
Ahmed K Toma1, Indran Davagnanam, Vijeya Ganesan
1Victor Horsley Department of Neurosurgery, National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK.
Pediatric intracranial arteriovenous shunts (AVSs) present uniquely due to immature brain physiology. This review covers the presentation, natural history, and management of these critical vascular disorders in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Vascular Malformations
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Intracranial arteriovenous shunts (AVSs) encompass diverse pediatric vascular anomalies.
- Neonatal and infant brains have immature hydrovenous systems, limiting compensatory capacity.
- Dural AVFs and dural sinus malformations are rare intracranial AVS subtypes in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical presentation of pediatric intracranial AVSs.
- To outline the natural history of these conditions in young patients.
- To discuss current management strategies for intracranial AVSs in children.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on pediatric intracranial arteriovenous shunts.
- Analysis of clinical presentations based on anatomical and physiological differences in children.
- Synthesis of management approaches for various AVS types.
Main Results:
- Pediatric AVSs include pial AVMs, vein of Galen malformations, and AVFs.
- Clinical manifestations in children differ significantly from adults due to immature physiology.
- Rare entities like dural AVF and dural sinus malformations present unique challenges.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the unique pathophysiology of pediatric intracranial AVSs is crucial.
- Early diagnosis and tailored management are essential for favorable outcomes.
- Further research into the long-term natural history and optimal treatment is warranted.
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