Dural arteriovenous fistulas are abnormal connections between the arteries and veins within the dura mater in the brain. There are 3 layers of membranes surrounding the brain. The strong, outer most layer is called the dura mater. There are arteries and veins withinthe dura mater that supply and remove blood to and from the brain. An abnormal connection between these arteries and veins is called a Dural Arteriovenous Fistula.
Symptoms
Some patients may not experience any side effects whilst others may experience any of the symptoms below:
- Headaches
- Decreased vision, redness, congestion, swelling of the eye.
- Pulsating noise behind the ear.
- Stroke like symptoms
- Seizures
- Brain hemorrhage
Diagnosis
A cerebral angiogram is usually used to assess the location and extent of the issue in order make the best treatment plan for you individual problem. Our neurosurgeons are trained to perform a cerebral angiogram.
Treatment
Depending on the individual’s symptoms, location of dural arteriovenous fistula and risk of hemorrhage the best treatment plan may be as simple as close observation. Possible surgeries include:
References: American Association of Neurological Surgeons, National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke, National Institute of Health, Barrow Neurological Institute.
