Endovascular and surgical approaches of ethmoidal dural fistulas: a multicenter experience and a literature review

Transarterial embolization of anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas as a first-line approach: A retrospective single-center study

BACKGROUND

Anterior cranial fossa (ACF) dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) present unique treatment challenges due to their complex angioarchitecture and high risk of hemorrhage. Recent advancements in endovascular techniques have highlighted the potential of transarterial embolization in managing these fistulas.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical and angiographic outcomes of transarterial embolization (TAE) as a first-line treatment for ACF DAVFs over a twenty-year period.

METHODS

From March 200 to September 2021, a total of 54 patients harboring ACF DAVFs underwent TAE as a first-line approach at our institution. The clinical presentation, angiographic features, procedure-related complications, clinical outcomes, and angiographic results were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Among 54 ACF DAVF treated, there were 48 males and 6 females, with a mean age of 52.5 (52.5 ± 13.0) years. Intracranial hemorrhage (51.9%, 28/54) was the most common symptom. A total of 57 embolization attempts were performed. 85.2% (46/54) achieved complete angiographic occlusion immediately post-TAE. Complications occurred in 3.7% (2/54) of patients. 97.6% (41/42) experienced symptom improvement or stabilization during clinical follow-up. Radiological follow-up showed that 85.0% (34/40) maintained complete fistula occlusion. Angiographic recurrence occurred in one (2.5%, 1/40,) patient without any symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

TAE for ACF DAVFs demonstrates a high rate of complete occlusion with an acceptable safety profile. Further comparative studies with other treatment approaches are recommended to validate these findings.

Bridging the gap: A scoping review of endovascular and microsurgical approaches to anterior ethmoidal dural arteriovenous fistulas

INTRODUCTION

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVF) are abnormal anastomoses between meningeal arteries and dural venous sinuses. Typically, dAVF treatment involves an endovascular or microsurgical approach. Anterior ethmoidal artery (AEA) dAVFs pose unique challenges due to their anatomy and location. We performed a scoping review to characterize pre and postoperative characteristics of AEA dAVFs and elucidate their optimal management.

METHODS

The authors conducted a comprehensive literature search on PubMed and Embase using Arskey & O'Malley's scoping review framework. The search strategy included "anterior," "ethmoidal," and "fistula" and excluded review articles and studies with unrelated pathology. Data collected included patient demographics, presentation, angiographic features, treatment modalities, and clinical and radiological outcomes.

RESULTS

One-hundred and two articles describing 273 patients with an average age of 58.79 years were included. Two-hundred and sixty patients had surgery; 127 (49 %) had endovascular embolization and 133 (51 %) had open surgery. Surgical approach was significantly associated with complete dAVF obliteration (p = 0.003, X2=8.73, N = 206); patients treated endovascularly were less likely to have complete dAVF obliteration (85.9 % for endovascular versus 97.2 % for microsurgery). Additionally, patients with preoperative dAVF rupture had significantly greater rates of postoperative hemorrhage (p = 0.003, X2=11.86, N = 184).

DISCUSSION

Surgical techniques and endovascular embolization are commonly used when treating dAVF, and our results highlight that open surgery appears to be superior to endovascular embolization when considering complete AEA dAVF obliteration. Despite advancements in treatment modalities, complications such as stroke, hemorrhage, and recurrence persist, emphasizing the importance of continued research and refinement of therapeutic strategies.

Transarterial embolization for anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistula based on multi-modal three-dimensional imaging

Background

Dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) in the anterior cranial fossa (ACF) is known to show a high risk of intracranial hemorrhage. Recently, multi-modal fusion imaging with computed tomography angiography, computed tomography venography, and three-dimensional (3D) rotation angiography have been used preoperatively to ensure anatomical safety. We report on endovascular treatment as a first-line approach for ACFDAVF based on the understanding of vascular anatomy obtained from multi-modal fusion imaging.

Methods

All patients with ACF-DAVF treated endovascularly as a first-line approach were included in this study. Analyses took into account complications (particularly visual function), immediate angiographic outcomes, and follow-up findings in consecutive patients with ACF-DAVF treated with interventional treatment based on multi-modal fusion imaging.

Results

Five patients with ACF-DAVF underwent six sessions of transarterial embolization (TAE) in our institution. The five male patients (mean age, 74.5 years; range, 60-84 years) were treated with liquid embolic agents (Onyx, four procedures; n-butyl 2-cyanoacrylate, two procedures). No difference was seen between preoperative image evaluation and image evaluation during the endovascular procedure, and in all cases, a microcatheter was navigated into a target artery assumed from preoperative multi-modal imaging, allowing treatment completion in a single procedure. In all cases, the shunt disappeared completely and visual function after procedure was maintained. At the last follow-up, all patients showed a modified Rankin scale score of 0 or 1 with no recurrences.

Conclusion

Multi-modal fusion imaging facilitates a 3D understanding of the vascular anatomy, allowing TAE as the first-line treatment for ACF-DAVF.

Transpalpebral/Blepharoplasty Incision and Supraorbital Craniotomy for the Treatment of Ethmoidal Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas: A Case Series

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Inherent complex angioarchitecture associated with ethmoidal dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) can make endovascular treatment methods challenging. Many surgical approaches are accompanied by unfavorable cosmetic results such as facial scarring. Blepharoplasty incision of the eyelid offers a minimal, well-hidden scar compared with other incision sites while offering the surgeon optimal visualization of pathogenic structures. This case series aims to report an initial assessment of the safety and efficacy of supraorbital craniotomy by blepharoplasty transpalpebral (eyelid) incision for surgical disconnection of ethmoidal dAVFs.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review was conducted for all patients who underwent blepharoplasty incision and craniotomy for disconnection of ethmoidal dAVFs at our institution between October 2011 and February 2023. Patient charts and follow-up imaging were reviewed to report clinical and angiographic outcomes as well as periprocedural and follow-up complications.

RESULTS

Complete obliteration and disconnection of ethmoidal dAVF was achieved in all 6 (100%) patients as confirmed by intraoperative angiogram with no resulting morbidity or mortality. Periprocedural complications included one case of transient nasal cerebrospinal fluid leak that was self-limiting and resolved before discharge without intervention.

CONCLUSION

Surgical treatment for ethmoidal dAVFs, specifically by transpalpebral incision and supraorbital craniotomy, is a safe and effective treatment option and affords the surgeon greater access to the floor of the anterior fossa when necessary. In addition, blepharoplasty incision addressed patient concerns for facial scarring compared with other incision sites by creating a more well-hidden, minimal scar in the natural folds of the eyelid for patients with an eyelid crease.

Feasibility, safety, and efficacy of endovascular treatment of anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas: a systematic review and meta-analysis with a subanalysis for Onyx

Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas (dAVFs) of the anterior cranial fossa (ACF) are uncommon but carry a high risk of hemorrhage and pose substantial treatment challenges. Recent advancements in endovascular treatment (EVT), including the introduction of novel liquid embolic agents, have markedly bolstered EVT's role in managing ACF-dAVFs, with notable series published in the last five years. We aimed to assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of EVT for ACF-dAVFs. We searched Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included those with ≥ 5 patients undergoing embolization of ACF-dAVFs, detailing both angiographic and clinical outcomes. We used single proportion analysis with 95% confidence intervals under a random-effects model, I2 to assess heterogeneity, and Baujat and sensitivity analysis to address high heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed by funnel-plot analysis and Egger's test. Outcomes included complete occlusion following embolization, unsuccessful endovascular embolization attempts, incomplete occlusion following embolization, symptom resolution or clinical improvement following embolization, recurrence; procedure-related complications, morbidity, and mortality. Additionally, a subanalysis for studies exclusively utilizing Onyx™ embolic system was done. Eighteen studies comprising 231 ACF-dAVF were included. Unsuccessful endovascular embolization attempts rate was 2%. Complete occlusion rate was 85%, with 4% of complications. Incomplete occlusion rate was 10%. Successfully embolized patients experienced either symptom resolution or clinical improvement in 94% of cases. Morbidity and mortality rates were 1% and 0%, respectively. Onyx subanalyses showed an overall rate of 0% for unsuccessful attempts, 95% for complete occlusion, and 5% for incomplete occlusion. Symptom resolution or clinical improvement was 98% and recurrence rate was 0%. EVT for ACF-dAVF is highly feasible, effective, and safe, with a low rate of complications, morbidity, and mortality. The subanalyses focusing on Onyx embolizations revealed superior efficacy and safety outcomes compared to the findings of the primary analyses involving all included studies.

Surgical considerations and techniques using intraoperative indocyanine green angiography for ethmoidal dural arteriovenous fistula

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the efficacy of microsurgery with intraoperative indocyanine green (ICG) angiography as a treatment approach for ethmoidal dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF).

METHODS

Between January 2010 and July 2021, our institution encountered a total of eight cases of ethmoidal DAVF. In each of these cases, microsurgical treatment was undertaken utilizing a bilateral sub-frontal interhemispheric approach, with the aid of intraoperative ICG angiography.

RESULTS

ICG angiography identified bilateral venous drainage with single dominance in four cases (50%) of ethmoidal DAVF, a finding that eluded detection during preoperative transfemoral cerebral angiography (TFCA). The application of microsurgical treatment, in conjunction with intraoperative ICG angiography, resulted in consistently positive clinical outcomes for all patients, as evaluated using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) at the 6-month postoperative follow-up assessment; six patients showed GOS score of 5, while the remaining two patients attained a GOS score of 4.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of intraoperative ICG angiography enabled accurate identification of both dominant and non-dominant venous drainage patterns, ensuring complete disconnection of the fistula and reducing the risk of recurrence.

Transarterial Embolization of Anterior Cranial Fossa Dural AVFs as a First-Line Approach: A Single-Center Study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Endovascular treatment has been increasingly used for anterior cranial fossa dural AVFs. Evidence on the safety and efficacy of different endovascular treatment strategies is limited. We report clinical and angiographic outcomes of patients with anterior cranial fossa dural AVFs who underwent treatment using transarterial embolization with n-BCA as a first-line approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing treatment for anterior cranial fossa dural AVFs at the Amsterdam University Medical Centers between 2010 and 2023 were retrospectively included. Transarterial embolization was used as a first-line approach, while transvenous treatment and surgery were used in cases of unsuccessful transarterial embolization. Treatment was evaluated on the basis of the angiographic cure rate, procedural complications, and clinical outcome.

RESULTS

Fourteen patients were included with 15 anterior cranial fossa dural AVFs. All patients underwent primary endovascular treatment (12 transarterial, 1 transvenous, and 1 combined). Complete occlusion using only transarterial embolization was reached in 69% of patients (9/13), while the overall complete occlusion by endovascular treatment was reached in 79% of patients (11/14). Navigation and embolization were performed through the ophthalmic artery in 13 patients, with no procedural complications. Visual acuity was preserved in all patients. Three patients underwent an operation after failed endovascular treatment. All patients had complete anterior cranial fossa dural AVF occlusion at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of anterior cranial fossa dural AVFs using transarterial embolization with n-BCA as a first-line approach is a safe and feasible first-line treatment strategy. No visual complications due to embolization through the ophthalmic artery occurred in this study.

Natural history, angiographic presentation and outcomes of anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas

BACKGROUND

Anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas (ACF-dAVFs) are aggressive vascular lesions. The pattern of venous drainage is the most important determinant of symptoms. Due to the absence of a venous sinus in the anterior cranial fossa, most ACF-dAVFs have some degree of drainage through small cortical veins. We describe the natural history, angiographic presentation and outcomes of the largest cohort of ACF-dAVFs.

METHODS

The CONDOR consortium includes data from 12 international centers. Patients included in the study were diagnosed with an arteriovenous fistula between 1990-2017. ACF-dAVFs were selected from a cohort of 1077 arteriovenous fistulas. The presentation, angioarchitecture and treatment outcomes of ACF-dAVF were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

60 ACF-dAVFs were included in the analysis. Most ACF-dAVFs were symptomatic (38/60, 63%). The most common symptomatic presentation was intracranial hemorrhage (22/38, 57%). Most ACF-dAVFs drained through cortical veins (85%, 51/60), which in most instances drained into the superior sagittal sinus (63%, 32/51). The presence of cortical venous drainage predicted symptomatic presentation (OR 9.4, CI 1.98 to 69.1, p=0.01). Microsurgery was the most effective modality of treatment. 56% (19/34) of symptomatic patients who were treated had complete resolution of symptoms. Improvement of symptoms was not observed in untreated symptomatic ACF-dAVFs.

CONCLUSION

Most ACF-dAVFs have a symptomatic presentation. Drainage through cortical veins is a key angiographic feature of ACF-dAVFs that accounts for their malignant course. Microsurgery is the most effective treatment. Due to the high risk of bleeding, closure of ACF-dAVFs is indicated regardless of presentation.

Intracranial Non-Sinus-Type Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas Could Be Curable by Transarterial Embolization or Transvenous Embolization with Liquid Embolic Material

Objective

Recently, the occlusion rate of transarterial embolization (TAE) for intracranial non-sinus-type dural arteriovenous fistulas (NSDAVFs) has improved after ONYX was introduced. Additionally, when TAE for NSDAVF is unsuccessful, transvenous embolization (TVE) has become available as an alternative treatment. We investigated the factor for the favorable occlusion rate of endovascular treatment for NSDAVF at our institutions.

Methods

Two hundred and twenty-seven patients with intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) were treated at our institutions between September 2014 and October 2022. The patients diagnosed with NSDAVF in all DAVFs who underwent endovascular treatment were included. The clinical characteristics, angiographical outcomes, and clinical outcomes of patients who underwent endovascular treatment were evaluated.

Results

Thirty-eight patients had intracranial NSDAVF (tentorial: 23 cases, parasagittal-convexity: 7, anterior cranial fossa: 6, middle cranial fossa: 2). Our participants' mean age was 64.8 ± 11.3 years, and 31 (81.6%) of them were males. Patients' symptoms were as follows: asymptomatic (24), hemorrhage (10), tinnitus (3), and trigeminal neuralgia (1). TAE and TVE were performed on 35 and 3 patients, respectively. The rate of immediate angiographical occlusion was 84.2% (32/38). The follow-up angiographical occlusion rate in 6 months was 88.5% (31/35). Complications occurred in three cases. There was no morbidity or mortality after 30 days.

Conclusion

TAE using the combination of the new microcatheter and microguidewire and TVE in the case of difficult or failed TAE for NSDAVF could achieve high success rates and safety.

Endoscope-Controlled High Frontal Approach for Dural Arteriovenous Fistula in Anterior Cranial Fossa

BACKGROUND

Currently, surgical obliterations are a mainstay for treating dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) in the anterior cranial fossa (ACF), which has high risks of hemorrhage and functional disorder. By introducing an endoscope into a high frontal approach and utilizing its advantages, we attempted to establish it as a new surgical procedure that eliminates the drawbacks of various approaches that have been used to date.

METHODS

By using 30 clinical datasets of venous-phase head computed tomography angiogram, measurements and comparisons on a 3-dimensional workstation were performed to identify the appropriate positioning of keyhole craniotomy for endoscope-controlled high frontal approach (EHFA). Based on these data, a cadaver-based surgery was simulated to verify the feasibility of EHFA and develop an efficient procedure.

RESULTS

In EHFA, though raising the position of the keyhole craniotomy made the operative field deeper, significant advantages were obtained in the angle between the operative axis and the medial-anterior cranial base and the amount of bone removal required at the anterior edge of craniotomy. Minimally invasive EHFA, performed through a keyhole craniotomy without opening the frontal sinus, proved to be feasible on 10 sides of 5 cadaver heads. Moreover, 3 patients with DAVF in ACF were successfully treated by clipping the fistula via EHFA.

CONCLUSIONS

EHFA, which provided a direct corridor to the medial ACF at the level of the foramen cecum and crista galli and the minimum necessary operative field, was found to be a suitable procedure for clipping the fistula of DAVF in ACF.

Endovascular Treatment of Anterior Cranial Fossa Dural Arteriovenous Fistula

Anterior cranial fossa (ACF) dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is a rare lesion among cerebral DAVFs. This lesion shows significant bleeding risk because of the angioarchitecture, involving direct leptomeningeal retrograde venous drainage, as a nonsinus-type DAVF. Over the years, direct surgery has been considered the primary treatment for ACF DAVF, offering favorable clinical outcomes compared to a low complete obliteration rate with endovascular treatment and the relatively high risk of blindness due to central retinal artery occlusion with transophthalmic artery embolization. In recent years, however, significant improvements in DSA and 3D reconstruction imaging quality have allowed a much more precise understanding of the angioarchitecture of the shunt and vascular access route. In addition, advances in endovascular devices, including catheters and embolic materials, have facilitated microcatheter navigation into more distal vessels and more reliable closure of the fistulous point. Supported by such technological innovations, endovascular approaches to the treatment of ACF DAVF have been becoming successful first-line treatments. This article reviews the evolution of treatment strategies and the current status of endovascular treatment for ACF DAVF, with a particular focus on transarterial embolization.

Endovascular treatment of anterior cranial base dural arteriovenous fistulas as a first-line approach: a multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

Anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) have been almost exclusively considered as surgical lesions. However, new advances in endovascular technology have made the endovascular treatment (EVT) of ethmoidal DAVFs feasible. The aim of this study was to report the clinical and angiographic outcomes of patients harboring DAVFs of the anterior cranial fossa who had undergone EVT as a first-line approach.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of a consecutive series of patients harboring anterior cranial base DAVFs who had undergone EVT as a first-line approach at four institutions. Angiographic follow-up was performed at 6 months. Immediate and late serious clinical events were assessed during follow-up, including death and stroke. Special emphasis was given to visual status before and after the treatment.

RESULTS

Between 2008 and 2020, 37 patients with ethmoidal DAVFs were admitted to the participating centers. In 2 patients, EVT was not attempted; therefore, 35 patients underwent EVT as a first-line procedure. An isolated transarterial approach was performed in 19 (54.3%) patients. The transvenous approach was performed exclusively in 12 (34.3%) patients, and combined access was used in 4 (11.4%) patients. The most frequently used arterial access route was the ophthalmic artery in 82.6% of the patients. Immediately, complete angiographic occlusion was achieved in 31 (91.2%) of 34 patients whose treatment was accomplished. Six-month control angiography revealed that 30 (88.2%) DAVFs were totally occluded. Complications occurred in 3 (8.8%) patients, including 1 (2.9%) patient who had central retinal artery occlusion. No significant difference in complications or occlusion rates was noted between the transarterial and transvenous approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

Most anterior cranial base DAVFs can be successfully treated via an endovascular approach. Neurological and visual complications are rare, even if the ophthalmic artery is used as the primary access route. Efforts should be focused on prospectively comparing the results of EVT and surgical management.

Transarterial Embolization of Ethmoidal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: 2-Dimensional Video

Cranial dural arteriovenous fistulae (dAVF) are rare cerebrovascular lesions characterized by direct arteriovenous shunting within the dural leaflets, with stark heterogeneity in angioarchitecture among different patients.1,2 It is, therefore, crucial to personalize treatment strategies to unique patients and their specific lesion. The authors describe an ethmoidal dAVF in an elderly female patient with arterial supply from the ophthalmic arteries and the contralateral middle meningeal artery. This, together with recent advances in microcatheter technology and the controllability of modern liquid embolic agents, opened up a route for transarterial embolization, obviating the need to course through the ophthalmic artery or the need for open surgery.3 Onyx is Food and Drug Administration-approved for treatment of arteriovenous malformations and can be used off-label for treatment of dAVF, as described here. This video demonstrates the technical nuances and safety considerations of transarterial liquid embolization through the middle meningeal artery while providing an overview of alternative treatment approaches for ethmoidal dAVFs. The patient consented to the procedure.

Anterior interhemispheric approach for anterior fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas

Anterior fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas (AF-DAVF) usually display a cortical venous drainage and are therefore at risk for rupture. Microsurgery is traditionally considered in many centers as the first-line treatment since endovascular treatment (EVT) entails a lower cure rate and significant ophthalmic risks. The anterior interhemispheric approach (AIA), originally described by Mayfrank in 1996, seems to offer the effectiveness of microsurgery while limiting the risks related to subfrontal craniotomy. The objective of this study was to analyze the surgical outcomes of patients who underwent this surgical approach for the treatment of AF-DAVF. We hereby describe our 10 years' experience of patients treated for an AF-DAVF with this technique in our institution and retrospectively analyzed our results. In addition, we describe our operative technique and its specificities. Eleven patients with AF-DAVF were included in our study. The definitive cure of the fistula was confirmed in all cases with postoperative cerebral angiography. All patients had a good neurological outcome and no major complication occurred. Brain retractors were never used during surgery, the frontal sinus was never opened neither, and anosmia was never observed after surgery. Anterior interhemispheric approach seems to be safe and effective to treat AF-DAVF with lower risks than other surgical approaches. This technique could be more widely considered when facing such midline vascular lesion.

Consortium for Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Outcomes Research (CONDOR): rationale, design, and initial characterization of patient cohort

OBJECTIVE

Cranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) are rare lesions, hampering efforts to understand them and improve their care. To address this challenge, investigators with an established record of dAVF investigation formed an international, multicenter consortium aimed at better elucidating dAVF pathophysiology, imaging characteristics, natural history, and patient outcomes. This report describes the design of the Consortium for Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Outcomes Research (CONDOR) and includes characterization of the 1077-patient cohort.

METHODS

Potential collaborators with established interest in the field were identified via systematic review of the literature. To ensure uniformity of data collection, a quality control process was instituted. Data were retrospectively obtained.

RESULTS

CONDOR comprises 14 centers in the United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Japan that have pooled their data from 1077 dAVF patients seen between 1990 and 2017. The cohort includes 359 patients (33%) with Borden type I dAVFs, 175 (16%) with Borden type II fistulas, and 529 (49%) with Borden type III fistulas. Overall, 852 patients (79%) presented with fistula-related symptoms: 427 (40%) presented with nonaggressive symptoms such as tinnitus or orbital phenomena, 258 (24%) presented with intracranial hemorrhage, and 167 (16%) presented with nonhemorrhagic neurological deficits. A smaller proportion (224 patients, 21%), whose dAVFs were discovered incidentally, were asymptomatic. Many patients (85%, 911/1077) underwent treatment via endovascular embolization (55%, 587/1077), surgery (10%, 103/1077), radiosurgery (3%, 36/1077), or multimodal therapy (17%, 184/1077). The overall angiographic cure rate was 83% (758/911 treated), and treatment-related permanent neurological morbidity was 2% (27/1467 total procedures). The median time from diagnosis to follow-up was 380 days (IQR 120-1038.5 days).

CONCLUSIONS

With more than 1000 patients, the CONDOR registry represents the largest registry of cranial dAVF patient data in the world. These unique, well-annotated data will enable multiple future analyses to be performed to better understand dAVFs and their management.

Transarterial embolization through the infraorbital artery of the ethmoidal dural arteriovenous fistula causing recurrent epistaxis: illustrative case

BACKGROUND

This report describes an ethmoidal dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) presenting with the unusual symptom of recurrent epistaxis and successfully treated with selective transarterial embolization through the infraorbital artery (IOA), which is the first time this route was used to the best of the authors’ knowledge, and reviews the literature focusing on the anatomical consideration of ethmoidal DAVFs causing epistaxis and its treatment approaches.

OBSERVATIONS

A 70-year-old man experienced recurrent intractable epistaxis that bled like a faucet turned on. Cerebral angiography revealed an ethmoidal DAVF supplied by the left anterior ethmoidal artery, both sphenopalatine arteries, both IOAs, and the right angular artery, which drained directly into the frontal cortical veins with a tortuous arterialized ectasia. Microaneurysms around the fistulous location where multiple feeding arteries converge were demonstrated and considered the likely source of the epistaxis. The fistula was completely occluded using transarterial Onyx embolization through the IOA, a branch of the internal maxillary artery. No further epistaxis appeared.

LESSONS

Although extremely rare, ethmoidal DAVFs should be included in the differential diagnosis of recurrent epistaxis. Ethmoidal DAVFs with bleeding sources in the ethmoid sinus and nasal cavity may cause epistaxis. It is important to properly diagnose and treat ethmoidal DAVFs presenting with epistaxis on the basis of a comprehensive anatomical understanding of extensive extracranial-extracranial and extracranial-intracranial anastomoses.

Efficacy and safety of embolization of dural arteriovenous fistulas via the ophthalmic artery

INTRODUCTION

Dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF) are vascular lesions with arteriovenous shunting that may be treated with surgical obliteration or endovascular embolization. Some DAVF, such as anterior cranial fossa DAVF (AC-DAVF) derive their arterial supply from ophthalmic artery branches in nearly all cases, and trans-arterial embolization carries a risk of vision loss. We determined the efficacy and safety of trans-ophthalmic artery embolization of DAVF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients with DAVF treated by trans-ophthalmic artery embolization from 2012 to 2020. Primary outcome was angiographic cure of the DAVF. Secondary outcomes included vision loss, visual impairment, orbital cranial nerve injury, stroke, modified Rankin Scale at 90-days, and mortality.

RESULTS

12 patients met inclusion criteria (9 males; 3 females). 10 patients had AC-DAVF. Patient age was 59.7  ±  9.5 (mean ± SD) years. Patients presented with intracranial hemorrhage (4 patients), headache (4 patients), amaurosis fugax (1 patients), or were incidentally discovered (2 patients). DAVF Cognard grades were: II (1 patient), III (6 patients), and IV (5 patients). DAVF were embolized with Onyx (10 patients), nBCA glue (1 patient), and a combination of coils and Onyx (1 patient). DAVF cure was achieved in 11 patients (92%). No patients experienced vision loss, death, or permanent disability. One patient experienced a minor complication of blurry vision attributed to posterior ischemic optic neuropathy. 90-day mRS was 0 (10 patients) and 1 (2 patients).

CONCLUSIONS

Trans-ophthalmic artery embolization is an effective and safe treatment for DAVF.

Endovascular treatment of anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistula: a multicenter series

PURPOSE

We report a multicenter experience using endovascular embolization as the first line approach for treatment of anterior cranial fossa (ACF) dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF).

METHODS

All patients with DAVFs located in the anterior cranial fossa who were treated with endovascular technique as a first line approach were included. Demographics, clinical presentation, angioarchitecture, strategy, complications, immediate angiographic, and follow-up results were included in the analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients met the inclusion criteria (18 male and 5 female). Age ranged from 14 to 79 years (mean 53 years). Twelve patients presented with hemorrhage. Twenty-eight endovascular procedures were performed. The overall immediate angiographic cure rate after endovascular treatment was 82.6% (19/23 patients). The angiographic cure rate of the transvenous strategy was significantly superior to the transarterial strategy (p ≤ 0.001). There was 1 complication in 28 total procedures (3.6%). Angiographic follow-up was available in 21 out of the 23 patients with a mean of 25 months (range 2 to 108 months). In these 21 patients, the DAVF was completely cured in 20 (95%). At last follow-up, all patients had a modified Rankin scale (mRS) 0 to 2.

CONCLUSION

Our experience suggests that endovascular treatment for ACF DAVFs has an acceptable safety profile with high rates of complete occlusion, particularly with transvenous approach. Whenever possible, transvenous approach should be preferred over transarterial approach as first line strategy.

Anterior Cranial Fossa Dural Arteriovenous Fistulae - Angioarchitecture and Intervention

PURPOSE

Anterior cranial fossa (ACF) dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF) are rare, unique, and ominous. While surgical disconnection is considered as the favored management option, endovascular treatment has lately gained importance. We present a single institution experience of seven cases.

METHOD

A retrospective analysis was performed on the institutional patient database. Features analyzed were demographic details, symptoms, angioarchitecture, treatment course, angiographic results, procedural complications, and follow-up.

RESULTS

This study included seven patients. The age at presentation ranged from 5-67 years. Clinical symptomatology was as intracranial hemorrhage in 4 patients and headache, chemosis and seizures in one patient each. The fistulae were paramedian at the ACF base. All DAVFs were Cognard type 4. The arterial feeders were from the anterior ethmoidal branches of the ophthalmic artery in all cases (bilateral in n = 5), frontal branches of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) (n = 6), and multiple ECA branches. The arterial route was the choice for access. Complete fistula obliteration was achieved in all but one patient. A traversed vein underwent rupture in one patient. One patient suffered postsurgical hemorrhage. No clinical or angiographic recurrence was noted.

CONCLUSION

The DAVFs of the ACF are inherently high-grade lesions. Transorbital ECA-ICA branch anastomoses may be recruited as feeders. They may be best managed by multidisciplinary means personalized on an angioarchitectural basis. Endovascular embolization is safe and efficacious when performed through a navigable feeder from the frontal division of the MMA, which according to our interpretation is in anastomosis with the anterior falcine branch of the anterior ethmoidal artery.

Initial experience with the Scepter Mini dual-lumen balloon for transophthalmic artery embolization of anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulae

BACKGROUND

Precise delivery of liquid embolic agents (LEAs) remains a challenge in the endovascular treatment of dural arteriovenous fistulae (dAVFs) and cerebral arteriovenous malformations (cAVMs). Despite significant advances in the past decade, LEA reflux and catheter navigability remain shortcomings of current endovascular technology, particularly in small and tortuous arteries. The Scepter Mini dual-lumen balloon microcatheter aims to address these issues by decreasing the distal catheter profile (1.6 French) while allowing for a small (2.2 mm diameter) balloon at its tip.

METHODS

We report our initial experience with the Scepter Mini in two patients with anterior cranial fossa dAVFs that were treated with transophthalmic artery embolization.

RESULTS

In both patients, the Scepter Mini catheter was able to be safely advanced into the distal ophthalmic artery close to the fistula site, and several centimeters past the origins of the central retinal and posterior ciliary arteries. A single Onyx injection without any reflux resulted in angiographic cure of the dAVF in both cases, and neither patient suffered any vision loss.

CONCLUSIONS

These initial experiences suggest that the Scepter Mini represents a significant advance in the endovascular treatment of dAVFs and cAVMs and will allow for safer and more efficacious delivery of LEAs into smaller and more distal arteries while diminishing the risk of LEA reflux.

Complication rate, cure rate, and long-term outcomes of microsurgery for intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulae: a multicenter series and systematic review

Although microsurgery is an established treatment modality for intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF), data regarding the perioperative complication rate, cure rate, and long-term outcomes remain scarce. The aims of this study were to describe our original experience with microsurgery, including the surgical complications and pitfalls, and conduct a systematic review of the relevant literature. A multicenter cohort of patients with dAVF treated by microsurgery was retrospectively assessed. In addition, the PubMed database was searched for published studies involving microsurgery for dAVF, and the complication rate, cure rate, and long-term outcomes were estimated. The total number of patients in our multicenter series and published articles was 553 (593 surgeries). The overall rates of transient complications, permanent complications, death, and incomplete treatment were 11.4, 4.0, 1.2, and 6.5%, respectively. A favorable outcome was achieved for 90.1% patients, even though almost half of the patients presented with intracranial hemorrhage. Of note, the incidence of recurrence was only one per 8241 patient-months of postoperative follow-up. Surgeries for anterior cranial fossa dAVF were associated with a lower complication rate, whereas those for tentorial dAVF were associated with higher complication and incomplete treatment rates. The complication and incomplete treatment rates were lower with simple disconnection of cortical venous drainage than with radical occlusion/resection of dural shunts. Our findings suggest that the cure rate, complication rates, and outcomes of microsurgery for dAVF are acceptable; thus, it could be a feasible second-line treatment option for dAVF. However, surgeons should be aware of the specific adverse events of microsurgery.

Surgical Obliteration of Anterior Cranial Fossa Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas via Unilateral High Frontal Craniotomy

BACKGROUND

Surgical obliteration is generally recommended for anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulas (ACF DAVFs) because of a high risk of bleeding and the difficulty of endovascular approaches. Surgical obliteration is generally performed via a frontobasal craniotomy; however, it is slightly excessive over the target fistula. Here, we present 2 cases of ACF DAVFs treated with small craniotomy without frontal sinus involvement and a review of the related literature.

METHODS

We present 2 cases including a 63-year-old woman who presented with a right-sided ACF DAVF that was fed by both ethmoidal arteries and drained into the right cortical veins (case 1) and a 59-year-old man with right-sided unruptured multiple aneurysms and a left-sided ACF DAVF that was fed by the right ethmoidal artery and drained into the left cortical veins (case 2).

RESULTS

Case 1 underwent surgical obliteration via a right high frontal craniotomy. Case 2 was simultaneously treated with surgical clipping of the multiple aneurysms via a right lateral supraorbital craniotomy and surgical obliteration of the ACF DAVF via a left high frontal craniotomy. These 2 patients had no neurologic deficits, and complete obliteration of all the lesions was confirmed on cerebral angiography.

CONCLUSIONS

Constructing a small corridor and a deep working distance in unilateral small high frontal craniotomy may be a slightly unusual approach; however, it is thought to provide sufficient space and a range of microscopic views that facilitate surgical manipulation without requiring extensive bone work.

Anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistula: Transarterial embolization from the ophthalmic artery as first-line treatment

OBJECTIVE

To retrospectively review the outcome of patients with dural arteriovenous fistula of the anterior cranial fossa (afDAVF) treated by transarterial embolization.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Six consecutive patients were referred to our hospital for afDAVF treatment. After a multidisciplinary discussion, they underwent endovascular embolization with Onyx injection through the ophthalmic artery. Their clinical presentation, management and outcomes were retrospectively assessed.

RESULTS

All interventions were performed with the liquid embolic agent Onyx through the transarterial route from the ophthalmic artery to access the fistulous point. All patients showed a good outcome with complete afDAVF obliteration.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that afDAVFs can be safely and completely obliterated by transarterial embolization via the ophthalmic artery.

Treatment of Ethmoidal Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas: A Meta-analysis Comparing Endovascular versus Surgical Treatment

BACKGROUND

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) in the anterior cranial fossa constitute approximately 1%-1.5% of intracranial vascular malformations. Depending on the drainage patterns, the diagnosis of ethmoidal DAVFs should prompt treatment because of the high risk of bleeding. Available treatments strategies are surgical treatment and the endovascular approach.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the surgical treatment with the endovascular therapy in terms of complete obliteration and perioperative adverse events.

METHODS

This study was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies were identified through a search of PubMed and Cochrane until February 2019. A random effects model meta-analysis of odds ratios (OR) was conducted and the I-square was used to assess heterogeneity. Good outcome was defined as no neurologic deterioration within 30 days after the procedure.

RESULTS

Five studies comprising 81 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Surgical disconnection was superior to endovascular therapy in terms of postprocedural complete obliteration rate (surgery group, 100% [n = 65/65]; endovascular therapy, 47% [n = 15/32]; OR, 32.19; 95% confidence interval, 5.46-189.72; I² = 9.9%) and 30-day good outcome (surgery group, 98% [n = 63/64]; endovascular therapy, 47% [n = 15/32]; OR, 21.90; 95% confidence interval, 1.94-247.27; I² = 53.6%). No significant differences in terms of 30-day stroke, transient ischemic attack; visual deficit, new-onset seizure, and intracranial hemorrhage were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical treatment was superior to endovascular therapy in terms of complete obliteration and overall good outcome. Adverse event rates were similar between the 2 groups. Future studies should be conducted to validate our results.

Current status of endovascular treatment for dural arteriovenous fistulae in the anterior cranial fossa: A systematic literature review

Anterior cranial fossa (ACF) dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVFs) are rare, and a systematic review of the literature is lacking. Such a review is necessary, however, so a systematic PubMed search of related studies was performed. Twenty-four studies were identified, reporting on 48 patients, of whom 39 had definite age and sex information and 33 (84.6%, 33/39) were male. The afflicted patients were between 37 and 80 years old (mean 55.6). Among the 48 patients, 28 (58.3%, 28/48) primarily presented with intracranial hemorrhage, 47 (97.9%, 47/48) had feeding arteries from the anterior ethmoidal artery (AEA) of the ophthalmic artery (OA), and 40 (83.3%, 40/48) had bilateral feeding arteries. All of the cases had high-grade Cognard classifications (III-IV). Among the 48 patients, 43 (89.6%, 43/48) had drainage into the superior sagittal sinus (SSS). In addition, 36 (75%, 36/48) patients were treated via transarterial embolization (TAE). Of these patients, 28 (77.8%, 28/36) were managed via the AEA of the OA. Another 12 (25%, 12/48) patients were treated via transvenous embolization (TVE), 11 of whom (91.7%, 11/12) were treated with the trans-SSS approach. Complete angiographic cure was achieved in 44 (91.7%, 44/48) patients, with 4 (8.3%, 4/48) patients suffering from postprocedural complications. All 48 patients had clear descriptions of follow-up outcomes, with 45 (93.8%, 45/48) patients having a good outcome. Thus, when treating ACF DAVFs, endovascular treatment (EVT) can completely obliterate the fistula point and correct the venous shunting. EVT is therefore an effective treatment for ACF DAVF. Although many complications can occur, this approach achieves good outcomes in most cases.