Complex arteriovenous malformation of the corpus callosum: Surgical nuances

Abstract

Arteriovenous malformations of the corpus callosum (CC-AVMs) are rare and challenging lesions, accounting for 8–9% of all cerebral AVMs. They are associated with a high risk of recurrent hemorrhage and historically were considered inoperable. This case report describes the successful surgical resection of a high-grade CC-AVM following failed stereotactic radiosurgery. A 19-year-old female with an anterior CC-AVM presented with seizures despite being on triple anti-epileptics. The patient had previously undergone conservative management for an intraventricular hemorrhage and stereotactic radiosurgery for the AVM. Pre-operative imaging revealed a 5 cm CC-AVM located at the genu and rostrum of the corpus callosum with intraventricular extension into the third ventricle. The AVM was classified as grade 4 according to the Spetzler-Martin grading system and grade 6 according to the supplementary grading system. The lesion was exposed through the anterior interhemispheric trans-callosal approach, and microsurgical nidal dissection was performed. The large draining vein was identified, coagulated, disconnected, and resected along with the nidus. The total operative time was 12.5 h. Postoperatively, the patient had no neurological deficits and was discharged on day 10. Complete resection was confirmed on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging, and the patient remained seizure-free at the 18-month follow-up visit. This case report demonstrates the feasibility of complete surgical resection for high-grade CC-AVMs that have failed non-surgical therapy. Careful surgical planning and technique can lead to favorable outcomes in these challenging cases.