Treatment of Dural Arteriovenous Fistula with Intradural Draining Vein at the Craniocervical Junction: Case Series with Special Reference to the Anatomical Considerations

Abstract

Background: Dural arteriovenous fistulas at the craniocervical junction (CCJ DAVFs) are a rare vascular disease. Endovascular treatment (EVT) and microsurgery are the primary treatment modalities for CCJ DAVFs. However, incomplete treatment or complications may occur after treatment because of the anatomical complexity.

Objective: We analyzed the neurosurgical treatment experiences of CCJ DAVFs to recommend suitable classification and treatment options.

Methods: CCJ DAVFs were anatomically classified into three types according to the feeding arteries and their relationships with the anterior spinal (ASAs) and lateral spinal arteries (LSAs). Type 1 was fed by the radiculomeningeal artery from the vertebral artery and was not associated with the ASA or LSA. Type 2 was fed by the radiculomeningeal artery, and the radicular artery supplied the LSA near the fistula point. Type 3 had the characteristics of type 1 or type 2 CCJ DAVFs, except the ASA also contributed to the fistula.

Results: There were 5, 7, and 4 cases of type 1, type 2, and type 3 CCJ DAVFs, respectively. EVT was attempted in 12 patients, of whom only 1 (type 1) was completely cured without complications. Nine cases had residual lesions after EVT, and two had spinal cord infarction due to occlusion of the LSA. Fourteen patients underwent microsurgical treatment. In all 14 cases, CCJ DAVFs were completely obliterated after microsurgery.

Conclusion: In cases of type 1 CCJ DAVF, both microsurgical treatment and EVT may be considered. However, for type 2 and 3 CCJ DAVFs, microsurgery may be a superior treatment modality.

Keywords: Case series; Craniocervical junction; Dural arteriovenous fistula; Lateral spinal artery; Myelopathy; Subarachnoid hemorrhage.