Cognitive dysfunction following arteriovenous malformation of the vein of Galen: a case analysis

Arteriovenous malformation of the vein of Galen (AMVG) has been associated with poor prognosis secondary to its cerebral steal effect. This report describes the cognitive profile of a 38-year-old man who presented to acute rehabilitation with a congenital vein of Galen malformation. Cognitive and behavioral impairments are described and correlated with neuroanatomic involvement. Physiatrists and allied health care professionals must recognize that with the improvement of neurosurgical technology, AMVG can be associated with favorable short-term rehabilitation outcome. Prospective studies are needed to determine long-term outcome.