Emerging Clinical Imaging Techniques for Spinal Arteriovenous Malformations

Abstract

Introduction Spinal arteriovenous malformations (SAVMs) are rare and under-diagnosed entities. If untreated, SAVMs can lead to progressive spinal cord myelopathy. The diversion of arterial blood through dorsal and/or medullary veins can lead to a vascular steal phenomena often accompanying highflow lesions, or venous hypertension and congestion which ultimately reduces intramedullary blood flow in lower flow malformations1. Therefore, timely diagnosis and a precise understanding of these lesions can determine surgical strategies and prevent delays in treatment.