Salvageable Intra-stent Coil Embolization Treatment for Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula in a Child

Abdullah S Almawi1, Abdulaziz S Alhammad2, Zaid A Alshammari3

  • 1Radiology, Security Forces Hospital, Riyadh, SAU.

Cureus
|August 28, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulae (SDAVF) are rare vascular malformations. Successful endovascular stenting and coiling in a pediatric patient demonstrate effective treatment for this challenging condition.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Vascular Surgery
  • Pediatric Neurosurgery

Background:

  • Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulae (SDAVF) are uncommon vascular anomalies characterized by abnormal connections between spinal arteries and veins.
  • SDAVF are exceptionally rare in children, presenting unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Observation:

  • A four-year-old girl presented with progressive bilateral lower limb weakness, a rare initial symptom of SDAVF.
  • The patient's condition required specialized neurovascular intervention due to its rarity in the pediatric population.

Findings:

  • Successful treatment of the pediatric SDAVF was achieved through primary major fistula point stenting and intra-stent coiling.
  • Complete closure of the fistula was confirmed, leading to a full recovery in the patient.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the efficacy of advanced endovascular techniques in managing complex pediatric spinal neurovascular pathologies.
  • A multidisciplinary neurovascular team approach is crucial for optimal outcomes in treating rare SDAVF cases.