Dural Arteriovenous Fistulae

Signs and Symptoms

Although symptoms of dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF) may vary, some of the more common include:

• An unusual ringing or humming in the ears
• Headaches
• Visual problems
• Stroke-like symptoms

Diagnosis

The following tests may be used to diagnose your dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF), as well as help identify its size, location and blood-flow pattern.

Angiography -- This special X-ray exam shows the structure of a person's blood vessels and is the most important test in diagnosing a DAVF. During this procedure, a harmless dye that can be seen on X-rays is injected into an artery that supplies blood to the brain. The dye follows the path of the brain's blood flow and can show any obstructions or leaks.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan -- During this test, X-ray beams are used to create a three-dimensional image of the brain.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) -- This procedure is a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of the blood vessels. Using a strong magnetic field, a MRI can generate a three-dimensional image of the brain that can be used to detect, diagnose and aid the treatment of DAVFs and other vascular disorders. A MRA provides detailed images of blood vessels. The procedure is painless, and the magnetic field is not known to cause tissue damage of any kind.

Treatment

Treatment for dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF) depends on the blood vessels involved. In the last two decades, new endovascular techniques have been developed that effectively and safely treat DAVFs. This approach, called embolization, aims to reduce blood flow to the DAVF by obstructing surrounding blood vessels. During this procedure, the DAVF is filled with specially designed coils, glues or spheres, which plug its vessels. However, some DAVFs cannot be completely blocked with embolization and require surgery.