Comparison of 3 Different Types of Spinal Arteriovenous Shunts below the Conus in Clinical Presentation, Radiologic Findings, and Outcomes

• DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a5001
• Publication Date: 2016-11-24T21:50:39Z
• Authors: T. Hong; J.E. Park; F. Ling; K.G. terBrugge; M. Tymianski; H.Q. Zhang; T. Krings
• Keywords: Conus medullaris; Filum terminale; Arteriovenous malformation

<h3>BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:</h3> Spinal arteriovenous shunts below the conus constitute 3 types of lesions, which have previously been mainly described in case reports, given their rarity, and are sometimes misdiagnosed. The purpose this study was to describe features each type compare these as epidemiologic features, clinical radiologic presentations, treatment, outcomes a consecutive series 48 cases. <h3>MATERIALS METHODS:</h3> prospectively collected data bases 2 referral centers for spinal vascular lesions were retrospectively reviewed. defined all dural intradural medullaris. Clinical findings, treatment results, assessed. <h3>RESULTS:</h3> There filum terminale fistulas 11 patients (22.9%), radicular 7 (14.6%), 30 (62.5%). Radicular presented at younger age (<i>P</i> = .017) with higher incidence back pain symptoms .037). A tethered cord found 54.5% 23.3% fistulas. After angiographic complete obliteration rate 89.4% function improved significantly &lt; .001). <h3>CONCLUSIONS:</h3> Three groups can be differentiated according features. Filum frequently associated dysraphic malformations, may suggest particular embryologic origin.