[Vein of Galen malformation: prenatal diagnosis and noninvasive procedure]

In two fetuses a vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation was prenatally diagnosed causing cardiac failure and hydrocephalus associated with marked encephalomalacia. Blood flow in the vena prosencephalica measured by Doppler ultrasonography was extremely high (1290 and 1500 ml/min maximum). In a interdisciplinary council a strictly noninvasive pre- and postnatal procedure was proposed. After adequate information both parents agreed with this approach. The neonates died immediately after birth.