Rule Out (R/O) Arteriovenous Malformation

Abstract

When imaging patients for intracranial arteriovenous malformations, the goals are: (1) to determine if an arteriovenous malformation is present; (2) to assess size, shape, and location of the nidus; (3) to determine potential arterial feeders and venous drainage routes (including screening for aneurysms on arterial feeders); and (4) to determine the state of the surrounding brain parenchyma, including the identification of intracranial hemorrhage. A post-contrast 3-D spoiled gradient echo (SPGR) sequence is used for sequences 1 to 3. Standard MR imaging sequences are used to evaluate the brain parenchyma. The protocol contained within this unit can be used for the evaluation of stable patients. In order to perform the optional sequences with perfusion and diffusion studies, a scanner with echoplanar capabilities is required; however, the standard anatomical MR imaging sequences included in the protocols do not require these faster gradients.