Brain vascular malformations

Abstract

Brain vascular malformations (excluding dural arteriovenous fistulas) are mostly congenital lesions that are less common than cerebral aneurysms but also cause serious disabilities or death in a significant proportion of affected patients. The group of lesions called "brain vascular malformations" is a heterogeneous one, clinically, histologically, and in terms of imaging. High-flow lesions such as arteriovenous malformations and slow-flow lesions such as cavernous malformations are included in this group. Clinical manifestations range from headaches, seizures, to focal deficits due to intracranial hemorrhages. CT and CTA are commonly the first diagnostic modalities used in these patients, and MRI and MRA help in the diagnosis of smaller lesions and are helpful in surgical planning. Digital subtraction angiography is the gold standard for evaluation of arterial and venous malformations, allowing higher spatial and temporal resolution and also detailed evaluation before endovascular or surgical treatments.