A systematic review of prenatal diagnosis Vein of Galen aneurysm: prenatal predictive markers and management from the fetal life to childhood

Abstract

Background Vein of Galen malformations (VGMs)account for less than 1% of all intracranial vascular malformations. However in the fetal and pediatric population represent the most common vascular malformation of the brain. An optimal knowledge of the prenatal and postnatal clinical features is mandatory for an effective management. Methods Articles published between 1st January 2003 and 1st January 2023, reported in PUBMED and EMBASE, were evaluated for a systematic review analyzing prenatal features, postnatal features and management of fetal Galean VGMs. Results Twenty-nine papers reporting information on 50 prenatally-diagnosed VGM were included. The most common prenatal features were: fetal hydrocephalus (40%) and cardiomegaly (58%). Post-natal data of 42 VGMs cases are described .The overall mortality was 59,52%. 76,50% of the survivors had a normal development. Conclusions A close follow-up and a multidisciplinary approach is mandatory to manage this condition. The aim of our study was to provide a guide to gynecologist, neonatologist, cardiologist, and neuroradiologist.