Spinal Pial Arteriovenous Fistulas: Angioarchitecture and Management

Abstract

Spinal pial arteriovenous fistulas (spAVFs) are rare, high-flow vascular malformations consisting of a single dilated pial artery connecting directly to an enlarged draining vein. This article describes the anatomic, clinical, and diagnostic features of spAVFs, to help clinicians to select the best treatment option. Both surgical and endovascular treatments are effective; microsurgery has a higher success rate. To maximize the exclusion rate, a multidisciplinary approach and adequate preoperative study are mandatory.