Arteriovenous Fistulas: The Pathological Bridge

Abstract

An intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is a type of intracranial vascular malformation in which there is a connection between an intracranial artery and a dural venous sinus. It accounts for 10-15% of all intracranial arteriovenous malformations. This malformation derives its arterial supply primarily from meningeal vessels, and the venous drainage is either via dural venous sinuses or through the cortical veins. DAVFs have a reported association with dural sinus thrombosis, venous hypertension, previous craniotomy, and trauma, though many lesions are idiopathic. Digital subtraction angiography remains the gold standard for diagnosing these fistulas. Endovascular treatment is one of the first line options available for their management. In this chapter, we will discuss and review the etiopathogenesis, natural history, common classification systems, and various available diagnostic options.