Piętka tętniczo-żylna
Diagnostyka i diagnoza

Piętka tętniczo-żylna (AVF) to patologiczne połączenie między tętnicą a żyłą, omijające sieć naczyń włosowatych, mogące mieć charakter wrodzony lub nabyty. Lokalizuje się najczęściej w kończynach, mózgu, rdzeniu kręgowym, płucach i skórze, ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem piętek opony twardej (DAVF), stanowiących 10-15% malformacji tętniczo-żylnych. Diagnostyka rozpoczyna się od wywiadu i badania fizykalnego, gdzie istotne są objawy neurologiczne oraz obecność szmerów naczyniowych (thrill, bruit, machinery murmur). Ultrasonografia dopplerowska cechuje się czułością 93% i swoistością 94%, umożliwiając ocenę przepływu, identyfikację przetoki oraz artertializację żyły odprowadzającej. Tomografia komputerowa z angiografią (CTA) oraz rezonans magnetyczny z angiografią (MRA) dostarczają szczegółowych informacji o anatomii i hemodynamice, zwłaszcza w lokalizacjach głębokich i ośrodkowego układu nerwowego. Cyfrowa angiografia subtrakcyjna (DSA) pozostaje złotym standardem, pozwalając na precyzyjną lokalizację, ocenę drenażu żylnego i klasyfikację, np. według systemu Cognarda, który wyróżnia 5 typów DAVF o rosnącym ryzyku powikłań, szczególnie przy refluksie do żył korowych i rdzeniowych (typy IIb-V). Wczesne rozpoznanie jest kluczowe, gdyż opóźnienia diagnostyczne (średnio 10-24 miesiące, nawet do 120 miesięcy) prowadzą do nieodwracalnych uszkodzeń neurologicznych.

Definicja piętki tętniczo-żylnej

Piętka tętniczo-żylna (arteriovenous fistula, AVF) to nieprawidłowe połączenie między tętnicą a żyłą, które pozwala na bezpośredni przepływ krwi z układu tętniczego do żylnego, z pominięciem sieci naczyń włosowatych. Przetoki te mogą być wrodzone (występujące od urodzenia) lub nabyte (powstałe w wyniku urazu, zabiegu chirurgicznego lub jako powikłanie choroby). Nierozpoznane i nieleczone piętki tętniczo-żylne mogą prowadzić do poważnych powikłań zdrowotnych.12

Lokalizacja piętki tętniczo-żylnej może obejmować praktycznie każdą część ciała. Najczęściej spotykane są w kończynach, mózgu, rdzeniu kręgowym, płucach i skórze. Szczególnym typem są piętki tętniczo-żylne opony twardej (dural arteriovenous fistula, DAVF), które stanowią ok. 10-15% wszystkich malformacji tętniczo-żylnych i powstają w oponach mózgu lub rdzenia kręgowego.34

Badanie fizykalne i wywiad kliniczny

Diagnoza piętki tętniczo-żylnej rozpoczyna się od dokładnego wywiadu klinicznego i badania fizykalnego. W przypadku podejrzenia piętki tętniczo-żylnej, lekarz zwraca szczególną uwagę na objawy zgłaszane przez pacjenta, które mogą obejmować bóle głowy, szumy uszne, zawroty głowy, osłabienie kończyn lub zaburzenia widzenia – w zależności od lokalizacji zmiany.5

Podczas badania fizykalnego lekarz może zauważyć charakterystyczne objawy, takie jak:67

  • Wyczuwalny szmer naczyniowy (tzw. „thrill”) – wibracja wyczuwalna podczas dotykania obszaru z piętką tętniczo-żylną
  • Słyszalny szmer naczyniowy (tzw. „bruit”) – charakterystyczny odgłos przypominający brzęczenie lub mruczenie, słyszalny przy osłuchiwaniu obszaru z piętką tętniczo-żylną za pomocą stetoskopu
  • Poszerzenie lub pulsowanie żył w okolicy zmiany
  • Podrażnienie lub zaczerwienienie skóry nad zmianą

89

W przypadku dużych piętek tętniczo-żylnych, podczas osłuchiwania stetoskopem można usłyszeć charakterystyczny szmer maszynowy (machinery murmur), który jest wynikiem turbulentnego przepływu krwi przez przetokę.10

Badania obrazowe w diagnostyce piętek tętniczo-żylnych

Ultrasonografia dopplerowska

Ultrasonografia dopplerowska jest zazwyczaj pierwszym badaniem obrazowym stosowanym w diagnostyce piętek tętniczo-żylnych, zwłaszcza tych zlokalizowanych w kończynach. Jest to metoda nieinwazyjna, względnie tania i szeroko dostępna.11

Badanie to pozwala na:1213

  • Ocenę przepływu krwi przez naczynie (w tym kierunku i prędkości przepływu)
  • Identyfikację obszaru nieprawidłowego połączenia między tętnicą a żyłą
  • Ocenę zmian w naczyniach doprowadzających i odprowadzających
  • Wykrycie poszerzenia żył odprowadzających
  • Identyfikację turbulentnego przepływu krwi charakterystycznego dla piętek tętniczo-żylnych

Charakterystyczne cechy piętki tętniczo-żylnej w badaniu dopplerowskim to: przepływ o niskim oporze w tętnicy doprowadzającej, turbulentny przepływ i wysoka prędkość przepływu w miejscu przetoki, oraz artertializacja żyły odprowadzającej (nieprawidłowa pulsacja tętnicza w żyle).1415

W badaniu duplex ultrasonograficznym czułość metody w wykrywaniu piętek tętniczo-żylnych sięga 93%, a swoistość 94%, co czyni tę metodę niezwykle skuteczną w diagnostyce wstępnej.16

Tomografia komputerowa

Tomografia komputerowa (CT), szczególnie z zastosowaniem angiografii (CTA), stanowi istotne narzędzie diagnostyczne w ocenie piętek tętniczo-żylnych. Badanie to umożliwia uzyskanie szczegółowych obrazów struktury naczyń i otaczających tkanek.17

W badaniu CT piętka tętniczo-żylna zazwyczaj uwidacznia się jako obszar o zwiększonej gęstości lub nieprawidłowym wzmocnieniu kontrastowym. Angiografia CT pozwala na ocenę:1819

  • Anatomii naczyń doprowadzających i odprowadzających
  • Lokalizacji przetoki
  • Ocenę przepływu krwi przez struktury naczyniowe
  • Wczesne wypełnienie żyły kontrastem, co wskazuje na obecność przetoki tętniczo-żylnej

CT angiografia ma szczególne znaczenie w diagnostyce piętek tętniczo-żylnych zlokalizowanych głęboko w tkankach, gdzie badanie ultrasonograficzne może nie być wystarczająco dokładne.20

Rezonans magnetyczny

Rezonans magnetyczny (MRI) wraz z angiografią rezonansu magnetycznego (MRA) stanowi niezwykle wartościowe narzędzie w diagnostyce piętek tętniczo-żylnych, szczególnie tych zlokalizowanych w obrębie mózgowia i rdzenia kręgowego.21

Badanie rezonansu magnetycznego pozwala na:2223

  • Uwidocznienie piętki tętniczo-żylnej i ocenę jej dokładnej lokalizacji
  • Ocenę zmian wtórnych w otaczających tkankach, takich jak obrzęk lub niedokrwienie
  • Identyfikację poszerzonych naczyń krwionośnych (tzw. „flow voids”) charakterystycznych dla piętek tętniczo-żylnych
  • W przypadku piętek opony twardej rdzenia kręgowego – wykrycie rozległej hiperintensywności sygnału T2 w rdzeniu kręgowym oraz nieprawidłowości przepływu naczyniowego

Angiografia rezonansu magnetycznego (MRA) jest szczególnie przydatna w ocenie hemodynamiki przepływu krwi. Techniki takie jak time-of-flight (TOF) oraz time-resolved MRA pozwalają na uwidocznienie nieprawidłowego przepływu krwi z tętnic do żył, charakterystycznego dla piętek tętniczo-żylnych.2425

W przypadku piętek tętniczo-żylnych opony twardej rdzenia kręgowego (SDAVF), charakterystycznym objawem w badaniu MRI jest tzw. „missing-piece sign” – obszar braku wzmocnienia w obrębie długiego odcinka intensywnie wzmacniającego się rdzenia kręgowego po podaniu kontrastu gadolinowego.26

Angiografia cyfrowa

Cyfrowa angiografia subtrakcyjna (DSA) pozostaje złotym standardem w diagnostyce piętek tętniczo-żylnych. Jest to badanie inwazyjne, polegające na wprowadzeniu cewnika do naczynia krwionośnego i podaniu środka kontrastowego, co pozwala na szczegółową ocenę anatomii naczyń.2728

Angiografia cyfrowa umożliwia:2930

  • Precyzyjne określenie lokalizacji piętki tętniczo-żylnej
  • Identyfikację wszystkich naczyń doprowadzających do przetoki
  • Ocenę drenażu żylnego i przepływu krwi przez przetokę
  • Klasyfikację piętek tętniczo-żylnych opony twardej według uznanych systemów klasyfikacyjnych (np. klasyfikacja Cognarda)
  • Planowanie leczenia, szczególnie w przypadku leczenia wewnątrznaczyniowego

Charakterystycznym objawem piętki tętniczo-żylnej w angiografii jest wczesne wypełnianie się żyły środkiem kontrastowym w fazie tętniczej, co wskazuje na bezpośredni przepływ krwi z tętnicy do żyły.31

W przypadku piętek tętniczo-żylnych opony twardej mózgu (DAVF), angiografia cyfrowa jest niezbędna do dokładnej oceny wzorca drenażu żylnego, co ma kluczowe znaczenie dla klasyfikacji i planowania leczenia.32

Klasyfikacja i ocena zaawansowania

Klasyfikacja piętek tętniczo-żylnych, szczególnie tych zlokalizowanych w obrębie ośrodkowego układu nerwowego, ma istotne znaczenie dla oceny ryzyka powikłań i wyboru odpowiedniej metody leczenia.33

Klasyfikacja piętek opony twardej mózgu

Jedną z najczęściej stosowanych klasyfikacji piętek tętniczo-żylnych opony twardej mózgu (DAVF) jest klasyfikacja Cognarda, która koreluje wzorce drenażu żylnego z przebiegiem neurologicznym. Wyróżnia ona 5 typów DAVF z rosnącym ryzykiem objawów klinicznych:34

  • Typ I: Drenaż żylny do zatoki opony twardej z prawidłowym kierunkiem przepływu
  • Typ IIa: Drenaż żylny do zatoki opony twardej z refluksem do zatok żylnych
  • Typ IIb: Drenaż żylny do zatoki opony twardej z refluksem do żył korowych
  • Typ IIa+b: Drenaż żylny do zatoki opony twardej z refluksem zarówno do zatok żylnych, jak i żył korowych
  • Typ III: Drenaż żylny bezpośrednio do żył korowych bez ektazji żylnej
  • Typ IV: Drenaż żylny bezpośrednio do żył korowych z ektazją żylną
  • Typ V: Drenaż żylny do żył rdzeniowych

Obecność wstecznego odpływu żylnego korowego (RCVD) jest kluczowym czynnikiem oceny ryzyka krwawienia śródczaszkowego. Piętki typu Cognard IIb-V wymagają leczenia ze względu na wysokie ryzyko powikłań.35

Klasyfikacja piętek opony twardej rdzenia kręgowego

Piętki opony twardej rdzenia kręgowego (SDAVF) stanowią najczęstszy typ malformacji naczyniowych rdzenia kręgowego. Ich diagnostyka jest często opóźniona ze względu na niespecyficzne objawy, co może prowadzić do nieodwracalnych uszkodzeń neurologicznych.36

Klasyfikacja piętek opony twardej rdzenia kręgowego opiera się głównie na lokalizacji anatomicznej oraz wzorcu drenażu żylnego. Typowo SDAVF występują w odcinku piersiowo-lędźwiowym rdzenia kręgowego i charakteryzują się nieprawidłowym połączeniem między tętniczą gałęzią oponową a żyłą korzeniową, która odprowadza krew do układu żylnego okołordzeniowego.37

Nowoczesne techniki diagnostyczne

Czasowo-rozdzielcza angiografia rezonansu magnetycznego

Czasowo-rozdzielcza angiografia rezonansu magnetycznego (Time-Resolved MRA, trMRA) jest nowoczesną techniką obrazowania, która umożliwia dynamiczną ocenę przepływu krwi przez naczynia. W diagnostyce piętek tętniczo-żylnych opony twardej mózgu (DAVF), trMRA w polu magnetycznym 3T wykazuje wysoką czułość i swoistość w porównaniu do złotego standardu, jakim jest cyfrowa angiografia subtrakcyjna.38

W badaniu oceniającym skuteczność trMRA w diagnostyce DAVF, metoda ta wykazała 100% czułość i 100% swoistość zarówno w identyfikacji przetoki, jak i w jej prawidłowej klasyfikacji. Technika ta wykorzystuje wczesne wypełnianie żylne do identyfikacji przetok, co czyni ją cennym narzędziem zarówno w badaniach przesiewowych, jak i w obserwacji pacjentów po leczeniu.3940

Nieinwazyjna diagnostyka piętek tętniczo-żylnych do dializ

W przypadku piętek tętniczo-żylnych wytworzonych chirurgicznie do hemodializy, opracowywane są nowe, nieinwazyjne metody monitorowania ich funkcji. Jedną z takich metod jest fono-angiografia – nieinwazyjna i tania procedura oceniająca wzorzec dźwięku wytwarzanego przez przetokę tętniczo-żylną.41

Prototypowe urządzenie opracowane do monitorowania piętek tętniczo-żylnych wykorzystuje metody uczenia maszynowego do analizy dźwięków i wykrywania stopnia zwężenia naczyń. System ten może pomóc lekarzom i pacjentom z chorobami nerek przewidzieć progresję zwężenia piętki tętniczo-żylnej, oferując łatwe w użyciu i dokładne narzędzie diagnostyczne.4243

Wyzwania diagnostyczne i najczęstsze błędy

Opóźnienie rozpoznania

Jednym z głównych wyzwań w diagnostyce piętek tętniczo-żylnych, szczególnie tych zlokalizowanych w obrębie ośrodkowego układu nerwowego, jest opóźnienie rozpoznania. W przypadku piętek opony twardej rdzenia kręgowego (SDAVF), średni czas od wystąpienia objawów do postawienia diagnozy wynosi od 10 do 24 miesięcy, a w niektórych przypadkach nawet do 120 miesięcy.44

Częstość błędnej diagnozy waha się od 17,5% do nawet 100% w niektórych badaniach. Średni czas od pierwszych radiologicznych oznak DAVF do potwierdzenia diagnozy wynosi od 9,2 do 20,7 miesięcy.45

Opóźnione rozpoznanie piętki tętniczo-żylnej może prowadzić do długotrwałych, nieodwracalnych powikłań neurologicznych. Dlatego wczesna diagnoza i interwencja są kluczowe dla poprawy rokowania.46

Najczęstsze błędy diagnostyczne

Piętki opony twardej rdzenia kręgowego (SDAVF) są często błędnie diagnozowane jako stenoza kanału kręgowego lub zapalenie rdzenia kręgowego. Lekarze powinni być świadomi fluktuacji objawów we wczesnych stadiach, aby uniknąć błędnej diagnozy.47

Piętki opony twardej mózgu (DAVF) prezentujące się z objawami parkinsonizmu i demencji są szczególnie trudne do zdiagnozowania i często są błędnie rozpoznawane jako choroby neurodegeneracyjne. W przypadku szybko postępującego parkinsonizmu lub demencji, z nieprawidłowym cieniem przepływu w badaniu MRI, należy rozważyć możliwość występowania DAVF.4849

W przypadku pacjentów z objawami niedokrwienia pnia mózgu o nieznanej przyczynie, należy rozważyć piętki tętniczo-żylne czaszkowo-szyjne w diagnostyce różnicowej, co wymaga przeprowadzenia bardziej kompleksowych badań naczyniowych, w tym angiografii mózgowej.5051

Znaczenie wielodyscyplinarnego podejścia w diagnostyce

Pacjenci z podejrzeniem piętki tętniczo-żylnej wymagają interdyscyplinarnego podejścia do diagnostyki. Jak w przypadku każdego schorzenia, proces ten rozpoczyna się od dokładnego wywiadu i badania fizykalnego.52

Wczesne zaangażowanie odpowiedniego zespołu chirurgicznego może pomóc ukierunkować proces diagnostyczny, tak aby uzyskane obrazy mogły być wykorzystane w planowaniu leczenia.53

Ze względu na złożoność piętek tętniczo-żylnych, szczególnie tych zlokalizowanych w obrębie ośrodkowego układu nerwowego, ich diagnoza i leczenie powinny być prowadzone w dużych ośrodkach specjalistycznych, z udziałem specjalistów posiadających doświadczenie w ich leczeniu.54

Piętki tętniczo-żylne opony twardej są złożonymi zmianami i wymagają wielodyscyplinarnego podejścia do ich diagnostyki, klasyfikacji i leczenia. Ważne jest, aby uwzględnić te zmiany w diagnostyce różnicowej w przypadku pacjentów z niewyjaśnionymi objawami neurologicznymi.55

Podsumowanie procesu diagnostycznego

Diagnoza piętki tętniczo-żylnej wymaga systematycznego podejścia, rozpoczynającego się od dokładnego wywiadu i badania fizykalnego, a następnie przechodzi przez różne metody diagnostyczne, aż do uzyskania jednoznacznego obrazu klinicznego.56

Najlepsza strategia diagnostyczna piętek tętniczo-żylnych obejmuje kombinację nieinwazyjnych technik obrazowania, a w razie potrzeby również inwazyjną angiografię. Badanie fizykalne, ultrasonografia dopplerowska, CT, MRI oraz angiografia cyfrowa to podstawowe narzędzia w procesie diagnostycznym.57

Wczesne rozpoznanie i leczenie piętek tętniczo-żylnych są kluczowe dla zapobiegania powikłaniom i poprawy rokowania. Wykrycie piętki we wczesnym stadium może ułatwić jej leczenie.58

W przypadku podejrzenia piętki tętniczo-żylnej, szczególnie w obrębie ośrodkowego układu nerwowego, szybka diagnoza i konsultacja ze specjalistą są niezbędne, aby zapobiec pogorszeniu stanu chorego.59

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  1. 10.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Arteriovenous fistula – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriovenous-fistula/symptoms-causes/syc-20369567
    An arteriovenous (AV) fistula is an irregular connection between an artery and a vein. […] Treatment for arteriovenous fistulas includes monitoring, compression, catheter-based procedures and, sometimes, surgery. […] If you have signs and symptoms of an arteriovenous fistula, make an appointment to see your health care provider. Early detection of an arteriovenous fistula may make the condition easier to treat. […] Arteriovenous fistulas may be present at birth (congenital) or they may occur later in life (acquired). […] Left untreated, an arteriovenous fistula can cause complications. Some complications may be serious.
  • #2 Arteriovenous Fistula – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559213/
    Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are abnormal connections between arteries and veins. AVFs can be surgically created, can occur as a result of a congenital or genetic anomaly, or can be secondary to iatrogenic injury or trauma. Other than the surgically created types of fistulas, these are quite rare. The pressure gradient between the arterial and venous systems can cause significant pathologic effects on the body, with the severity of the condition depending on the location of the fistula. This activity reviews the role of the interprofessional team in evaluating and managing arteriovenous fistulas. […] […] AVFs can exist almost anywhere in the body, depending on the etiology. These can be divided into 2 groups: acquired or congenital. Acquired fistulas can be further subdivided into surgically created, as in for hemodialysis, or secondary to trauma, whether accidental or procedure-related. […]
  • #3 Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Diagnosis & Treatment – NYC | Columbia Neurosurgery in New York City
    https://www.neurosurgery.columbia.edu/patient-care/conditions/dural-arteriovenous-fistula
    A dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF), also called a dural arteriovenous malformation (dural AVM), is an atypical connection between blood vessels in the dura. […] an angiogram (also called an arteriogram) is the most important diagnostic tool for DAVFs. During an angiogram, a dye that can be seen on X-ray is injected into the bloodstream. Then a specialist uses a series of X-rays to examine the blood flow in the brain and its covering. The angiogram provides essential information about both the location and the structure of the malformation. […] Dural arteriovenous fistulas are complex lesions and should be managed at major centers with specialists highly trained in their treatment. At Columbia University Irving Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, our neurosurgeons are experienced in evaluating DAVFs and in treating them surgically when necessary.
  • #4 Intracranial Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas: Classification, Imaging Findings, and Treatment | American Journal of Neuroradiology
    http://www.ajnr.org/content/33/6/1007
    Intracranial DAVFs are pathologic dural-based shunts and account for 10%15% of all intracranial arteriovenous malformations. […] The diagnosis is dependent on a high level of clinical suspicion and high-resolution imaging. Cross-sectional imaging techniques by using CT and MR imaging aid in the diagnosis, but conventional angiography remains the most accurate method for complete characterization and classification of DAVFs. […] Initial radiologic evaluation includes CT and MR imaging. Noncontrast CT is limited to identifying intracranial hemorrhage and edema due to venous congestion. MR imaging is more helpful because it can demonstrate dilated vessels, venous pouches, vascular enhancement, and signs of venous hypertension in high-grade lesions (eg, white matter hyperintensity, intracranial hemorrhage, or venous infarction).
  • #5 Arteriovenous (AV) Fistula: Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23450-arteriovenous-fistula
    An arteriovenous fistula is a medical condition where an artery and vein connect directly, causing blood to flow between them. […] Your healthcare provider can diagnose an arteriovenous fistula with a variety of approaches, including a physical examination and diagnostic imaging. […] The most likely tests include at least one type of imaging. […] Most arteriovenous fistulas are often curable, depending on the cause, size and where they are. […] The time it takes you to feel better and fully recover depends on the treatment used, as well as the size and location of the fistula. […] Quick diagnosis and treatment are essential, especially with larger fistulas.
  • #6 Arteriovenous fistula – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriovenous-fistula/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369571
    To diagnose an arteriovenous fistula, a health care provider may use a stethoscope to listen to the blood flow in the arms and legs. The blood flow through an arteriovenous fistula makes a sound like humming. […] If your provider thinks you have a fistula, other tests are typically done to confirm the diagnosis. Tests to diagnose an arteriovenous fistula can include: […] Duplex ultrasound is the most effective and common way to check for an arteriovenous fistula in the legs or arms. In duplex ultrasound, sound waves are used to evaluate the speed of blood flow. […] Computerized tomography (CT) angiogram. This imaging test can show if blood flow is bypassing the capillaries. Dye (contrast) is given by IV for this test. The dye helps blood vessels show up more clearly on the images. […] Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). This test may be done if you have signs of an arteriovenous fistula deep under the skin. Like an MRI, an magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create pictures of the body’s soft tissues. Dye (contrast) is given by IV to help blood vessels show up better on the images.
  • #7 Arteriovenous Fistula – Cardiovascular Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/peripheral-venous-disorders/arteriovenous-fistula
    An arteriovenous fistula may be congenital (usually affecting smaller vessels) or acquired as a result of trauma (eg, a bullet or stab wound) or erosion of an arterial aneurysm into an adjacent vein. […] Fistulas are diagnosed clinically based on presence of thrill, murmur, and other signs. […] Doppler ultrasonography is the best confirmatory test. For fistulas that cannot be visualized with ultrasonography, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) or computed tomography angiography (CTA) may be used. Imaging with conventional angiography is typically done when a catheter-based treatment is planned.
  • #8 Arteriovenous Fistula – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/venous-disorders/arteriovenous-fistula
    An arteriovenous fistula is an abnormal channel between an artery and a vein. […] Although doctors may be able to hear the distinctive sound of blood flow though a fistula by using a stethoscope, imaging tests are often needed. […] Imaging tests, usually ultrasonography […] With a stethoscope placed over a large acquired arteriovenous fistula, doctors can hear a distinctive to-and-fro sound, like that of moving machinery. This sound is called a machinery murmur. […] Doppler ultrasonography is used to confirm the diagnosis and to determine the extent of the problem. […] When a fistula is serious enough to require treatment, doctors may do angiography, in which they inject a liquid contrast agent into a blood vessel. The contrast agent (sometimes inaccurately called dye) helps the fistula show up more clearly on x-rays so that doctors can choose the best treatment option.
  • #9
    https://www.gleneagles.com.sg/conditions-diseases/cerebral-arteriovenous-fistula/diagnosis-treatment
    Diagnosing an arteriovenous fistula may involve the following: […] Physical examination. Allowing the doctor to identify whether there is a characteristic „thrill” (vibration) or bruit (whooshing sound) over the affected area during a physical examination. […] Imaging tests. These include ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI to help visualize the abnormal connection between the artery and vein. […] Catheter angiography. This involves injecting a contrast dye into the blood vessels to provide detailed images of the vascular system.
  • #10 Arteriovenous Fistula – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/venous-disorders/arteriovenous-fistula
    An arteriovenous fistula is an abnormal channel between an artery and a vein. […] Although doctors may be able to hear the distinctive sound of blood flow though a fistula by using a stethoscope, imaging tests are often needed. […] Imaging tests, usually ultrasonography […] With a stethoscope placed over a large acquired arteriovenous fistula, doctors can hear a distinctive to-and-fro sound, like that of moving machinery. This sound is called a machinery murmur. […] Doppler ultrasonography is used to confirm the diagnosis and to determine the extent of the problem. […] When a fistula is serious enough to require treatment, doctors may do angiography, in which they inject a liquid contrast agent into a blood vessel. The contrast agent (sometimes inaccurately called dye) helps the fistula show up more clearly on x-rays so that doctors can choose the best treatment option.
  • #11 Arteriovenous Fistula – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559213/
    The literature has described 2 types of lower extremity surgical AVFs for hemodialysis. The superficial femoral or popliteal vein can be mobilized from the knee to anastomose with the superficial femoral artery, called an SFV transposition. The saphenous vein can create a loop AVF on the anterior thigh, anastomosed with the common femoral artery. […] […] AVFs as a result of iatrogenic injury are typically a result of surgical procedures, invasive line placement, or needle biopsy. The literature demonstrates multiple reports of iatrogenic injury resulting years after surgical procedures. […] […] Beyond the clinical evaluation from history and physical, a duplex ultrasound (US) is a non-invasive and inexpensive way to confirm the diagnosis of AVF, given that the AVF is superficial. The duplex US demonstrates low resistance flow in the feeding artery. At the anastomosis or fistula, turbulence and high-velocity flow are demonstrated. […]
  • #12 Multimodality imaging evaluation of arteriovenous fistulas and grafts: a clinical practice review – Gonzalez – Cardiovascular Diagnosis and Therapy
    https://cdt.amegroups.org/article/view/110077/html
    Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) and grafts (AVGs) are the preferred forms of vascular access for hemodialysis in patients with severe renal dysfunction. Multimodality imaging plays an important role in the pre-procedural evaluation of these patients. Ultrasound is often used for pre-procedural vascular mapping in preparation for the creation of an AVF or AVG. Pre-procedural mapping includes a comprehensive evaluation of the arterial and venous vasculature including evaluation of vessel diameter, stenosis, course, presence of collateral veins, wall thickness and wall abnormalities. […] Following the procedure, routine surveillance imaging is not recommended. If there are any clinical concerns or if physical examination is inconclusive, further evaluation with ultrasound is warranted. Ultrasound allows for assessment of vascular access site maturation by evaluating the time-averaged blood flow and helping characterize the outflow vein in the case of an AVF.
  • #13 Multimodal imaging techniques for the diagnosis of congenital left renal arteriovenous fistula: A case report
    https://www.wjgnet.com/2307-8960/full/v13/i21/104062.htm
    The imaging techniques provide complementary, detailed diagnostic information and play a critical role in improving our understanding of RAVFs, providing a reliable basis for clinical treatment. […] Current diagnostic methods for RAVF include ultrasonography, CT, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), and DSA. Each examination technique has its characteristics, and they complement each other. […] Ultrasound has the advantages of being noninvasive, convenient, real-time, and inexpensive. Color doppler ultrasound is sensitive to changes in blood flow and can detect hemodynamic changes produced by RAVF. […] Enhanced CT is to observe the changes of strengthened blood supply of the lesions, more objectively understand the location of the lesion and its anatomic relationship with surrounding tissues and organs, and exclude and identify RAVF caused by other space-occupying lesions.
  • #14 Arteriovenous Fistula – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559213/
    The literature has described 2 types of lower extremity surgical AVFs for hemodialysis. The superficial femoral or popliteal vein can be mobilized from the knee to anastomose with the superficial femoral artery, called an SFV transposition. The saphenous vein can create a loop AVF on the anterior thigh, anastomosed with the common femoral artery. […] […] AVFs as a result of iatrogenic injury are typically a result of surgical procedures, invasive line placement, or needle biopsy. The literature demonstrates multiple reports of iatrogenic injury resulting years after surgical procedures. […] […] Beyond the clinical evaluation from history and physical, a duplex ultrasound (US) is a non-invasive and inexpensive way to confirm the diagnosis of AVF, given that the AVF is superficial. The duplex US demonstrates low resistance flow in the feeding artery. At the anastomosis or fistula, turbulence and high-velocity flow are demonstrated. […]
  • #15 Arteriovenous fistula | Radiology Reference Article | Radiopaedia.org
    https://radiopaedia.org/articles/arteriovenous-fistula?lang=us
    Even if the fistula cannot be visualized directly, changes in the artery upstream from the fistula and the vein downstream from the fistula can establish a diagnosis: increased diastolic arterial flow due to its connection to the low-resistance vein, arterialization of the vein downstream from the fistula (abnormal arterial pulsatility in the vein), enlargement of the downstream vein due to the increased volume of flow, color bruit artifact in the adjacent soft tissues due to turbulent flow. […] Angiography/DSA will show abnormal early filling of an adjacent vein in the region of the arteriovenous fistula. […] Abnormal early attenuation/intensity of a vein can prompt a search for a point of arteriovenous fistulization upstream. Time-resolved imaging sequences in MRI (e.g. TRICKS or TWIST) may be helpful.
  • #16 (PDF) Diagnosis of Arteriovenous Fistula Dysfunction
    https://www.academia.edu/2146951/Diagnosis_of_Arteriovenous_Fistula_Dysfunction
    The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of CDU in detecting pAVF stenoses 50% were 93%, 94%, was 97%, respectively. […] Routine CDU surveillance of pAVFs should be considered to identify and correct flow-limiting stenoses that may compromise pAVF long-term patency and use. […] PE has shown a moderate accuracy to detect stenosis.
  • #17 Arteriovenous fistula – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriovenous-fistula/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369571
    To diagnose an arteriovenous fistula, a health care provider may use a stethoscope to listen to the blood flow in the arms and legs. The blood flow through an arteriovenous fistula makes a sound like humming. […] If your provider thinks you have a fistula, other tests are typically done to confirm the diagnosis. Tests to diagnose an arteriovenous fistula can include: […] Duplex ultrasound is the most effective and common way to check for an arteriovenous fistula in the legs or arms. In duplex ultrasound, sound waves are used to evaluate the speed of blood flow. […] Computerized tomography (CT) angiogram. This imaging test can show if blood flow is bypassing the capillaries. Dye (contrast) is given by IV for this test. The dye helps blood vessels show up more clearly on the images. […] Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). This test may be done if you have signs of an arteriovenous fistula deep under the skin. Like an MRI, an magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create pictures of the body’s soft tissues. Dye (contrast) is given by IV to help blood vessels show up better on the images.
  • #18 Arteriovenous fistula | Radiology Reference Article | Radiopaedia.org
    https://radiopaedia.org/articles/arteriovenous-fistula?lang=us
    Even if the fistula cannot be visualized directly, changes in the artery upstream from the fistula and the vein downstream from the fistula can establish a diagnosis: increased diastolic arterial flow due to its connection to the low-resistance vein, arterialization of the vein downstream from the fistula (abnormal arterial pulsatility in the vein), enlargement of the downstream vein due to the increased volume of flow, color bruit artifact in the adjacent soft tissues due to turbulent flow. […] Angiography/DSA will show abnormal early filling of an adjacent vein in the region of the arteriovenous fistula. […] Abnormal early attenuation/intensity of a vein can prompt a search for a point of arteriovenous fistulization upstream. Time-resolved imaging sequences in MRI (e.g. TRICKS or TWIST) may be helpful.
  • #19 Arteriovenous Fistula Diagnosis | Expert Surgeon | Aaron Cohen-Gadol, MD
    https://www.aaroncohen-gadol.com/en/patients/arteriovenous-fistula/types/diagnosing
    Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) are rare and intricate vascular anomalies characterized by abnormal connections between arteries and veins within the protective membrane covering the brain, known as the dura mater. […] Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as not all dAVFs are created equal, and their management can vary widely. […] The diagnosis of dAVF is done in a stepwise fashion, starting with initial symptoms of concern, and progressing through various diagnostic modalities until a clear clinical picture is established. […] Once a collection of concerning symptoms is described, the care team may order non-invasive imaging studies; Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans being the most commonly used methods. […] Formal angiography, also known as digital subtraction angiography (DSA), is the gold standard for diagnosing dAVFs.
  • #20 Dural arteriovenous fistula | Radiology Reference Article | Radiopaedia.org
    https://radiopaedia.org/articles/dural-arteriovenous-fistula?lang=us
    Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVF) are a heterogeneous collection of conditions that share arteriovenous shunts from dural vessels. They present variably with hemorrhage or venous hypertension and can be challenging to treat. […] Diagnosis can be difficult on non-contrast CT but should be thought of when an intracranial hemorrhage is in an unusual location or age group. With contrast, particularly with CT angiography, a diagnosis can often be made if care is taken. […] MR angiography is, however, fairly sensitive and specific with both time-of-flight angiography and time-resolved angiography to be able to imply or directly visualize arteriovenous shunting into dural sinuses or cortical veins and delineate enlarged feeding arteries. […] DSA remains the gold standard in both diagnosis and accurate classification of dural arteriovenous fistulas, allowing not only systematic evaluation of feeding vessels (and thus planning for potential intervention), but also demonstrating the presence and extent of retrograde leptomeningeal venous drainage.
  • #21 Arteriovenous fistula – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriovenous-fistula/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369571
    To diagnose an arteriovenous fistula, a health care provider may use a stethoscope to listen to the blood flow in the arms and legs. The blood flow through an arteriovenous fistula makes a sound like humming. […] If your provider thinks you have a fistula, other tests are typically done to confirm the diagnosis. Tests to diagnose an arteriovenous fistula can include: […] Duplex ultrasound is the most effective and common way to check for an arteriovenous fistula in the legs or arms. In duplex ultrasound, sound waves are used to evaluate the speed of blood flow. […] Computerized tomography (CT) angiogram. This imaging test can show if blood flow is bypassing the capillaries. Dye (contrast) is given by IV for this test. The dye helps blood vessels show up more clearly on the images. […] Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). This test may be done if you have signs of an arteriovenous fistula deep under the skin. Like an MRI, an magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create pictures of the body’s soft tissues. Dye (contrast) is given by IV to help blood vessels show up better on the images.
  • #22 Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Diagnosis & Treatment – NYC | Columbia Neurosurgery in New York City
    https://www.neurosurgery.columbia.edu/patient-care/conditions/spinal-dural-arteriovenous-fistula
    A spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins in the dura, the outer lining of the spinal cord. […] SDAVFs are usually identified by a MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan. This procedure uses large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of the spinal cord. […] Once a diagnosis of SDAVF has been suggested by MRI, an angiogram will make it possible to identify the exact location of the fistula itself. In an angiogram, a radiologist injects a dye into the blood vessels. […] Because of the complexity of SDAVF and of the problems it may cause, several injections and scans may be necessary.
  • #23 Delayed Diagnosis of Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: A Case Report and Scoping Review
    https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/13/3/711
    Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is among the most common arterial shunt diseases typically found in middle aged or older men. […] However, the condition is easily misdiagnosed, and it can take some time to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. […] In a previous study, the median time from onset to treatment was longer in misdiagnosed patients than in correctly diagnosed ones (11 vs. 4 months). […] The misdiagnosis rate was 17.5–100.0%. […] The mean duration from onset of symptoms to diagnosis was 10.15 months (median, 10–24 months; range, 1–120 months). […] The mean time from the first radiologic findings of DAVF to confirmed diagnosis was 9.2–20.7 months (range, 1–168 months). […] SDAVF is frequently misdiagnosed due to its nonspecific features, and late diagnosis can worsen the prognosis.
  • #24 Dural arteriovenous fistula | Radiology Reference Article | Radiopaedia.org
    https://radiopaedia.org/articles/dural-arteriovenous-fistula?lang=us
    Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVF) are a heterogeneous collection of conditions that share arteriovenous shunts from dural vessels. They present variably with hemorrhage or venous hypertension and can be challenging to treat. […] Diagnosis can be difficult on non-contrast CT but should be thought of when an intracranial hemorrhage is in an unusual location or age group. With contrast, particularly with CT angiography, a diagnosis can often be made if care is taken. […] MR angiography is, however, fairly sensitive and specific with both time-of-flight angiography and time-resolved angiography to be able to imply or directly visualize arteriovenous shunting into dural sinuses or cortical veins and delineate enlarged feeding arteries. […] DSA remains the gold standard in both diagnosis and accurate classification of dural arteriovenous fistulas, allowing not only systematic evaluation of feeding vessels (and thus planning for potential intervention), but also demonstrating the presence and extent of retrograde leptomeningeal venous drainage.
  • #25 Cranial Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: Diagnosis and Classification with Time-Resolved MR Angiography at 3T | American Journal of Neuroradiology
    https://www.ajnr.org/content/30/8/1546
    Although the diagnosis of DAVF may commonly be suspected on planar CT and MR imaging, DSA, with its high spatial and temporal resolution, has been required to confirm the diagnosis and define the lesion. […] We report here our experience with using a technique of whole-head, trMRA at 3T for the diagnosis and classification of DAVF compared with the reference standard of DSA. […] Our study evaluated the performance of a commercially available form of trMRA optimized for spatial and temporal resolution with whole-head coverage at 3T for the screening and grading of DAVFs in a population of patients in which the prevalence of a fistula was 48% (20/42). […] The consensus opinion among the readers with use of this form of trMRA (vs DSA as the criterion standard) was 100% sensitive and 100% specific, not only for DAVF identification but for correct grading of the fistula.
  • #26 Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: The Missing-Piece Sign | Ochsner Journal
    https://www.ochsnerjournal.org/content/22/1/10
    Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (sDAVFs) are a rare and often underdiagnosed spinal pathology. […] Early diagnosis of sDAVFs is important; deficits are potentially reversible, but delayed treatment may result in irreversible neurologic disability. […] Imaging diagnosis primarily relies on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and conventional spinal angiography. […] A characteristic enhancement pattern for sDAVFs known as the missing-piece sign has been recently (2018) described in the literature. […] The missing-piece sign can be seen on MRI and is defined as at least one discrete region of nonenhancement within a long segment of intense spinal cord gadolinium enhancement. […] A missing-piece sign pattern of enhancement, along with perimedullary vascular flow voids, should prompt additional evaluation with angiography.
  • #27 Arteriovenous Fistula – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559213/
    Selective angiography is the gold standard and has shown better accuracy than CTA. It is the most invasive evaluation of an AVF but provides the exact point of arteriovenous communication surrounding vascular anatomy, flow dynamics, and mechanism for treatment. […] […] Most cases of arteriovenous fistulas in the past were treated conservatively in wartime and, later on, were surgically managed if needed. Early intervention, however, may deter complications of AVFs that can be avoided, and post-traumatic fistulas should be closed as close to diagnosis as possible. […] […] Indications for Treatment include hemodynamic instability, availability of a surgical team, injury to adjacent tissue, and unsuccessful endovascular repair are all indications for open surgical intervention on a fistula. […]
  • #28 Dural arteriovenous fistula | Radiology Reference Article | Radiopaedia.org
    https://radiopaedia.org/articles/dural-arteriovenous-fistula?lang=us
    Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVF) are a heterogeneous collection of conditions that share arteriovenous shunts from dural vessels. They present variably with hemorrhage or venous hypertension and can be challenging to treat. […] Diagnosis can be difficult on non-contrast CT but should be thought of when an intracranial hemorrhage is in an unusual location or age group. With contrast, particularly with CT angiography, a diagnosis can often be made if care is taken. […] MR angiography is, however, fairly sensitive and specific with both time-of-flight angiography and time-resolved angiography to be able to imply or directly visualize arteriovenous shunting into dural sinuses or cortical veins and delineate enlarged feeding arteries. […] DSA remains the gold standard in both diagnosis and accurate classification of dural arteriovenous fistulas, allowing not only systematic evaluation of feeding vessels (and thus planning for potential intervention), but also demonstrating the presence and extent of retrograde leptomeningeal venous drainage.
  • #29 Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Diagnosis & Treatment – NYC | Columbia Neurosurgery in New York City
    https://www.neurosurgery.columbia.edu/patient-care/conditions/dural-arteriovenous-fistula
    A dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF), also called a dural arteriovenous malformation (dural AVM), is an atypical connection between blood vessels in the dura. […] an angiogram (also called an arteriogram) is the most important diagnostic tool for DAVFs. During an angiogram, a dye that can be seen on X-ray is injected into the bloodstream. Then a specialist uses a series of X-rays to examine the blood flow in the brain and its covering. The angiogram provides essential information about both the location and the structure of the malformation. […] Dural arteriovenous fistulas are complex lesions and should be managed at major centers with specialists highly trained in their treatment. At Columbia University Irving Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, our neurosurgeons are experienced in evaluating DAVFs and in treating them surgically when necessary.
  • #30 Dural Arteriovenous Fistula (DAVF) – Cerebrovascular Disease | UCLA Health
    https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/neurosurgery/cerebrovascular/conditions/dural-arteriovenous-fistula-davf
    Arteriovenous fistulas occur when abnormal connections form directly from arteries to veins. In the nervous system, this direct connection most commonly occurs in the covering of the brain and spinal cord called the dura mater. When this connection occurs in the dura mater, they are called Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas (DAVFs). These fistulas lead to a buildup of pressure in the veins surrounding the brain or spinal cord, and can result in nervous system dysfunction, seizure, and hemorrhage. […] If a DAVF is suspected, it is important to make a diagnosis and consult with a specialist quickly to prevent worsening of the disease. At UCLA, we use the most advanced technology and latest imaging systems to diagnose arteriovenous fistulas of the brain and spine quickly and accurately. […] During your examination, your expert team may use the following imaging techniques to locate and assess your AVF: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, including magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and venography (MRV), are used to identify and locate an AVF.
  • #31 Arteriovenous fistula | Radiology Reference Article | Radiopaedia.org
    https://radiopaedia.org/articles/arteriovenous-fistula?lang=us
    Even if the fistula cannot be visualized directly, changes in the artery upstream from the fistula and the vein downstream from the fistula can establish a diagnosis: increased diastolic arterial flow due to its connection to the low-resistance vein, arterialization of the vein downstream from the fistula (abnormal arterial pulsatility in the vein), enlargement of the downstream vein due to the increased volume of flow, color bruit artifact in the adjacent soft tissues due to turbulent flow. […] Angiography/DSA will show abnormal early filling of an adjacent vein in the region of the arteriovenous fistula. […] Abnormal early attenuation/intensity of a vein can prompt a search for a point of arteriovenous fistulization upstream. Time-resolved imaging sequences in MRI (e.g. TRICKS or TWIST) may be helpful.
  • #32 Dural arteriovenous fistulas presenting with brainstem dysfunction: diagnosis and surgical treatment in: Neurosurgical Focus Volume 32 Issue 5 (2012) Journals
    https://thejns.org/focus/view/journals/neurosurg-focus/32/5/2012.2.focus1217.xml
    A cerebral dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is an acquired abnormal arterial-to-venous connection within the leaves of the intracranial dura with a wide range of clinical presentations and natural history. […] The Cognard classification correlates venous drainage patterns with neurological course, identifying 5 DAVF types with increasing rates of symptomatic presentation. […] In this paper we present 2 patients with brainstem dysfunction secondary to DAVF. […] Our report emphasizes the need to further evaluate brainstem stroke of unknown origin through more comprehensive vascular studies, including cerebral angiograms. […] The primary mechanism responsible for brainstem dysfunction among the patients noted above is believed to be venous hypertension secondary to arterial pressure via the fistula.
  • #33 Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Presenting As Pulsatile Tinnitus | Journal of the Belgian Society of Radiology
    https://jbsr.be/articles/10.5334/jbsr.2619
    We report magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of a dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF), a possible cause of pulsatile tinnitus. […] If a dAVF is suspected, MRA without contrast enhancement should be performed, with TOF images being the most valuable sequence. In case of an inconclusive examination, or for extensive investigation of hemodynamics, selective angiography is necessary, which remains the gold standard. […] MR(A) findings of a dAVF include one or more widened, tortuous feeding arteries with strong collateralisation, widened transosseous vessels and flow voids in the involved dural sinuses. […] RCVD is the key feature to classify and treat dAVFs (Cognard classification). The presence of RCVD is associated with an increased risk of intracranial bleeding. When RCVD is absent (Cognard I and IIa), a wait-and-see policy is possible. In case of high-grade dAVFs (Cognard IIb-V), treatment is necessary. DAVF can be successfully treated with Onyx embolization.
  • #34 Dural arteriovenous fistulas presenting with brainstem dysfunction: diagnosis and surgical treatment in: Neurosurgical Focus Volume 32 Issue 5 (2012) Journals
    https://thejns.org/focus/view/journals/neurosurg-focus/32/5/2012.2.focus1217.xml
    A cerebral dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is an acquired abnormal arterial-to-venous connection within the leaves of the intracranial dura with a wide range of clinical presentations and natural history. […] The Cognard classification correlates venous drainage patterns with neurological course, identifying 5 DAVF types with increasing rates of symptomatic presentation. […] In this paper we present 2 patients with brainstem dysfunction secondary to DAVF. […] Our report emphasizes the need to further evaluate brainstem stroke of unknown origin through more comprehensive vascular studies, including cerebral angiograms. […] The primary mechanism responsible for brainstem dysfunction among the patients noted above is believed to be venous hypertension secondary to arterial pressure via the fistula.
  • #35 Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Presenting As Pulsatile Tinnitus | Journal of the Belgian Society of Radiology
    https://jbsr.be/articles/10.5334/jbsr.2619
    We report magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of a dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF), a possible cause of pulsatile tinnitus. […] If a dAVF is suspected, MRA without contrast enhancement should be performed, with TOF images being the most valuable sequence. In case of an inconclusive examination, or for extensive investigation of hemodynamics, selective angiography is necessary, which remains the gold standard. […] MR(A) findings of a dAVF include one or more widened, tortuous feeding arteries with strong collateralisation, widened transosseous vessels and flow voids in the involved dural sinuses. […] RCVD is the key feature to classify and treat dAVFs (Cognard classification). The presence of RCVD is associated with an increased risk of intracranial bleeding. When RCVD is absent (Cognard I and IIa), a wait-and-see policy is possible. In case of high-grade dAVFs (Cognard IIb-V), treatment is necessary. DAVF can be successfully treated with Onyx embolization.
  • #36 Delayed Diagnosis of Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: A Case Report and Scoping Review
    https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/13/3/711
    Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is among the most common arterial shunt diseases typically found in middle aged or older men. […] However, the condition is easily misdiagnosed, and it can take some time to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. […] In a previous study, the median time from onset to treatment was longer in misdiagnosed patients than in correctly diagnosed ones (11 vs. 4 months). […] The misdiagnosis rate was 17.5–100.0%. […] The mean duration from onset of symptoms to diagnosis was 10.15 months (median, 10–24 months; range, 1–120 months). […] The mean time from the first radiologic findings of DAVF to confirmed diagnosis was 9.2–20.7 months (range, 1–168 months). […] SDAVF is frequently misdiagnosed due to its nonspecific features, and late diagnosis can worsen the prognosis.
  • #37 Early Diagnosis Of Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula London Spine | London Spine Unit | UK’s Best Spinal Clinic | Harley Street
    https://www.londonspine.com/early-diagnosis-of-spinal-dural-arteriovenous-fistula-london-spine/
    Early Diagnosis Of Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula London Spine […] Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVF) are rare and most commonly affect men aged >50 years. Patients with SDAVF develop an abnormal vascular dural shunt between the dural branch of a segmental artery and a subdural radicular vein that drains the perimedullary venous system, leading to venous hypertension and secondary congestive myelopathy. Most SDAVFs are located in the thoracolumbar region, and usually patients present with slowly progressive paraparesis and urinary disturbances. […] SDAVF is diagnostically challenging; this condition may be misdiagnosed as lumbar spinal stenosis or myelitis. Clinicians should be aware of fluctuating symptoms in the early stages to avoid misdiagnosis of SDAVF. Claudication is associated with various activities including walking, bathing, drinking, and singing. On T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the spinal cord, SDAVFs show a high signal intensity with a low signal intensity peripherally and dilated spinal cord veins in the subarachnoid space.
  • #38 Cranial Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: Diagnosis and Classification with Time-Resolved MR Angiography at 3T | American Journal of Neuroradiology
    https://www.ajnr.org/content/30/8/1546
    The diagnosis of dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) remains one of the few uncontested indications for catheter based cerebral angiography. […] We report our experience of using a commercially available form of time-resolved MR angiography (trMRA) at 3T for the diagnosis and classification of a cranial DAVF compared with the reference standard of digital subtraction angiography (DSA). […] The reported result of the DSA was used as the gold standard against which the performance of the trMRA was measured. […] In this small series, trMRA at 3T seems be a reliable technique in the screening and surveillance of DAVF in specific clinical situations. […] The diagnosis of a cranial dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) has traditionally been made with catheter-based cerebral intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography (DSA).
  • #39 Cranial Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: Diagnosis and Classification with Time-Resolved MR Angiography at 3T | American Journal of Neuroradiology
    https://www.ajnr.org/content/30/8/1546
    Although the diagnosis of DAVF may commonly be suspected on planar CT and MR imaging, DSA, with its high spatial and temporal resolution, has been required to confirm the diagnosis and define the lesion. […] We report here our experience with using a technique of whole-head, trMRA at 3T for the diagnosis and classification of DAVF compared with the reference standard of DSA. […] Our study evaluated the performance of a commercially available form of trMRA optimized for spatial and temporal resolution with whole-head coverage at 3T for the screening and grading of DAVFs in a population of patients in which the prevalence of a fistula was 48% (20/42). […] The consensus opinion among the readers with use of this form of trMRA (vs DSA as the criterion standard) was 100% sensitive and 100% specific, not only for DAVF identification but for correct grading of the fistula.
  • #40 Cranial Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: Diagnosis and Classification with Time-Resolved MR Angiography at 3T | American Journal of Neuroradiology
    https://www.ajnr.org/content/30/8/1546
    This technique of trMRA does not rely on visualization of feeding arteries but, rather, exploits the obligatory early venous filling to identify fistulas. […] Our study supports the use of trMRA in the arena of cranial DAVF only for the purposes of screening and surveillance and not as a tool for complete characterization of a fistula.
  • #41 The prototype device for non-invasive diagnosis of arteriovenous fistula condition using machine learning methods | Scientific Reports
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-72336-5
    The aim of this work is to develop a low-cost tool for monitoring arteriovenous fistula (AVF) with the use of phono-angiography method. […] We report on the design, fabrication, and preliminary testing of a prototype device for non-invasive diagnosis which is very important for hemodialysed patients. […] This is a non-invasive and inexpensive procedure for evaluating the sound pattern of bruit produced by AVF. […] Hence, once the AVF is developed, it needs to be monitored periodically to ensure that the fistula can manage the process of hemodialysis. […] The main objective is to observe the development and progression of stenosis (vascular narrowing) which increases the risk of thrombosis (vascular occlusion caused by clotting). […] The methods of automatic assessment of arteriovenous fistula condition described so far in the literature are mainly based on a two-class classification, dividing the fistula into good and bad.
  • #42 The prototype device for non-invasive diagnosis of arteriovenous fistula condition using machine learning methods | Scientific Reports
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-72336-5
    Since the main objective for patients on hemodialysis is to observe the progression of stenosis over time to ensure that the fistula can manage the process of hemodialysis, it is crucial to develop a low-cost tool detecting a degree of vascular access stenosis. […] The aim of this work is to develop a low-cost tool for monitoring AVF with the use of phono-angiography method. […] The proposed low-cost device was created using a machine-learning approach. […] The general concept was to recognize patients with significant stenosis based on patterns developed and assign them to appropriate classes. […] The sequence of disease states (from patent (A) to failed (F)) was proposed by the medical staff of dialysis centre as 6 recognizable and successive states of deteriorating of AVF functions.
  • #43 The prototype device for non-invasive diagnosis of arteriovenous fistula condition using machine learning methods | Scientific Reports
    https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-72336-5
    Finally, it can be stated that the low-cost device created can help doctors and patients with renal disease to predict AVF fistula stenosis progression by providing an easy to use and high accuracy tool. […] Up to date, the need for fully automated devices offering the AVF condition assessment has not been satisfied.
  • #44 Delayed Diagnosis of Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: A Case Report and Scoping Review
    https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/13/3/711
    Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is among the most common arterial shunt diseases typically found in middle aged or older men. […] However, the condition is easily misdiagnosed, and it can take some time to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. […] In a previous study, the median time from onset to treatment was longer in misdiagnosed patients than in correctly diagnosed ones (11 vs. 4 months). […] The misdiagnosis rate was 17.5–100.0%. […] The mean duration from onset of symptoms to diagnosis was 10.15 months (median, 10–24 months; range, 1–120 months). […] The mean time from the first radiologic findings of DAVF to confirmed diagnosis was 9.2–20.7 months (range, 1–168 months). […] SDAVF is frequently misdiagnosed due to its nonspecific features, and late diagnosis can worsen the prognosis.
  • #45 Delayed Diagnosis of Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: A Case Report and Scoping Review
    https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/13/3/711
    Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is among the most common arterial shunt diseases typically found in middle aged or older men. […] However, the condition is easily misdiagnosed, and it can take some time to arrive at a definitive diagnosis. […] In a previous study, the median time from onset to treatment was longer in misdiagnosed patients than in correctly diagnosed ones (11 vs. 4 months). […] The misdiagnosis rate was 17.5–100.0%. […] The mean duration from onset of symptoms to diagnosis was 10.15 months (median, 10–24 months; range, 1–120 months). […] The mean time from the first radiologic findings of DAVF to confirmed diagnosis was 9.2–20.7 months (range, 1–168 months). […] SDAVF is frequently misdiagnosed due to its nonspecific features, and late diagnosis can worsen the prognosis.
  • #46 Delayed Diagnosis of Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula: A Case Report and Scoping Review
    https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/13/3/711
    Spinal MRI should be conducted in patients presenting symptoms such as slowly progressive lower-limb weakness, paresthesia, and vesicorectal dysfunction. […] Spinal MRI findings such as extensive T2 hyperintensity and flow-void abnormalities should raise the suspicion of DAVF. […] Delayed diagnosis of DAVF usually causes long-term irreversible neurological complications. Thus, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial.
  • #47 Early Diagnosis Of Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula London Spine | London Spine Unit | UK’s Best Spinal Clinic | Harley Street
    https://www.londonspine.com/early-diagnosis-of-spinal-dural-arteriovenous-fistula-london-spine/
    Early Diagnosis Of Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistula London Spine […] Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVF) are rare and most commonly affect men aged >50 years. Patients with SDAVF develop an abnormal vascular dural shunt between the dural branch of a segmental artery and a subdural radicular vein that drains the perimedullary venous system, leading to venous hypertension and secondary congestive myelopathy. Most SDAVFs are located in the thoracolumbar region, and usually patients present with slowly progressive paraparesis and urinary disturbances. […] SDAVF is diagnostically challenging; this condition may be misdiagnosed as lumbar spinal stenosis or myelitis. Clinicians should be aware of fluctuating symptoms in the early stages to avoid misdiagnosis of SDAVF. Claudication is associated with various activities including walking, bathing, drinking, and singing. On T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the spinal cord, SDAVFs show a high signal intensity with a low signal intensity peripherally and dilated spinal cord veins in the subarachnoid space.
  • #48 Diagnosis and treatment of a dural arteriovenous fistula presenting with progressive parkinsonism and dementia: A case report and literature review
    https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/etm.2014.2122?text=fulltext
    A dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) presenting with parkinsonism and dementia is rare; thus, is easily misdiagnosed. […] In conclusion, progressive parkinsonism and dementia with an abnormal flow void shadow on cranial MRI films should be considered as a possible diagnosis of a DAVF. In these cases, DSA and endovascular treatment are recommended as soon as possible. […] Due to varying nonspecific clinical manifestations, the diagnosis of a DAVF is often based on imaging studies. Diagnosis is difficult using cranial CT; however, this imaging technique can reveal certain secondary changes caused by a DAVF, including venous sinus thrombosis, acute and sub-acute subarachnoid hemorrhage and subdural or cerebral hemorrhage. However, cranial MRI is better compared with CT for the detection of DAVF-induced secondary changes, and is useful to show the extensive flow void phenomenon.
  • #49 Diagnosis and treatment of a dural arteriovenous fistula presenting with progressive parkinsonism and dementia: A case report and literature review
    https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/etm.2014.2122?text=fulltext
    In the present case, the patient was misdiagnosed prior to admission to the Tianjin Fifth Central Hospital. An abnormal flow void area was identified in the left temporal lobe from the cranial MRI films, and subsequently CTA and DSA were essential for the final diagnosis. […] DSA is better for demonstrating the characteristics of a DAVF, including the site of the fistula, feeding features and venous return, and even can indirectly demonstrate the degree of fistula blood flow and intracranial hemodynamic characteristics. […] In conclusion, a DAVF presenting as parkinsonism and dementia is easily misdiagnosed. However, a timely diagnosis is crucial for improved therapeutic outcomes. In cases of rapidly progressive parkinsonism or dementia, accompanied by an abnormal flow void shadow on cranial MRI films, the possibility of a DAVF should be considered. Subsequently, the DAVF should be treated with appropriate and timely selective endovascular treatment, with DSA recommended as soon as possible.
  • #50 Dural arteriovenous fistulas presenting with brainstem dysfunction: diagnosis and surgical treatment in: Neurosurgical Focus Volume 32 Issue 5 (2012) Journals
    https://thejns.org/focus/view/journals/neurosurg-focus/32/5/2012.2.focus1217.xml
    A cerebral dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is an acquired abnormal arterial-to-venous connection within the leaves of the intracranial dura with a wide range of clinical presentations and natural history. […] The Cognard classification correlates venous drainage patterns with neurological course, identifying 5 DAVF types with increasing rates of symptomatic presentation. […] In this paper we present 2 patients with brainstem dysfunction secondary to DAVF. […] Our report emphasizes the need to further evaluate brainstem stroke of unknown origin through more comprehensive vascular studies, including cerebral angiograms. […] The primary mechanism responsible for brainstem dysfunction among the patients noted above is believed to be venous hypertension secondary to arterial pressure via the fistula.
  • #51 Dural arteriovenous fistulas presenting with brainstem dysfunction: diagnosis and surgical treatment in: Neurosurgical Focus Volume 32 Issue 5 (2012) Journals
    https://thejns.org/focus/view/journals/neurosurg-focus/32/5/2012.2.focus1217.xml
    Our 2 cases demonstrate that although previous reports largely relied on endovascular embolization occlusion techniques, open surgical disconnection is feasible, safe, and efficacious for both cerebral and cervical lesions. […] As shown by the 2 cases in this report, craniocervical DAVF should be considered in the differential diagnosis of ischemic brainstem dysfunction of unknown origin.
  • #52 Arteriovenous Fistula – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559213/
    Patients presenting with signs and symptoms of arteriovenous fistulas require an interprofessional approach to the workup. As with any condition, this starts with a thorough history and physical exam. Involving the appropriate surgical team early in the process can help direct the evaluation so that the imaging obtained can be used in surgical planning.
  • #53 Arteriovenous Fistula – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559213/
    Patients presenting with signs and symptoms of arteriovenous fistulas require an interprofessional approach to the workup. As with any condition, this starts with a thorough history and physical exam. Involving the appropriate surgical team early in the process can help direct the evaluation so that the imaging obtained can be used in surgical planning.
  • #54 Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Diagnosis & Treatment – NYC | Columbia Neurosurgery in New York City
    https://www.neurosurgery.columbia.edu/patient-care/conditions/dural-arteriovenous-fistula
    A dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF), also called a dural arteriovenous malformation (dural AVM), is an atypical connection between blood vessels in the dura. […] an angiogram (also called an arteriogram) is the most important diagnostic tool for DAVFs. During an angiogram, a dye that can be seen on X-ray is injected into the bloodstream. Then a specialist uses a series of X-rays to examine the blood flow in the brain and its covering. The angiogram provides essential information about both the location and the structure of the malformation. […] Dural arteriovenous fistulas are complex lesions and should be managed at major centers with specialists highly trained in their treatment. At Columbia University Irving Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, our neurosurgeons are experienced in evaluating DAVFs and in treating them surgically when necessary.
  • #55 Introduction. Dural arteriovenous fistulas: multimodal diagnosis, management, and outcomes in: Neurosurgical Focus Volume 56 Issue 3 (2024) Journals
    https://thejns.org/focus/view/journals/neurosurg-focus/56/3/article-pE1.xml
    Dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) are relatively rare lesions that comprise an abnormal communication between meningeal arteries and dural venous sinuses, cortical veins, or spinal cord veins. […] This issue of Neurosurgical Focus is instrumental in providing a comprehensive review of common DAVFs, diagnostic and clinical presentations, multimodal approaches, and their long-term outcomes, in addition to unique technological advancements in their management. […] DAVFs remain complex arteriovenous anomalies requiring careful clinical evaluation and consideration for treatment with a single or multidisciplinary approach. This Neurosurgical Focus issue provides a guide for the diagnosis, management, and outcome of DAVFs, in the context of recent technological advancements in the field.
  • #56 Arteriovenous Fistula Diagnosis | Expert Surgeon | Aaron Cohen-Gadol, MD
    https://www.aaroncohen-gadol.com/en/patients/arteriovenous-fistula/types/diagnosing
    Dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) are rare and intricate vascular anomalies characterized by abnormal connections between arteries and veins within the protective membrane covering the brain, known as the dura mater. […] Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as not all dAVFs are created equal, and their management can vary widely. […] The diagnosis of dAVF is done in a stepwise fashion, starting with initial symptoms of concern, and progressing through various diagnostic modalities until a clear clinical picture is established. […] Once a collection of concerning symptoms is described, the care team may order non-invasive imaging studies; Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans being the most commonly used methods. […] Formal angiography, also known as digital subtraction angiography (DSA), is the gold standard for diagnosing dAVFs.
  • #57 Arteriovenous Fistula Diagnosis | Expert Surgeon | Aaron Cohen-Gadol, MD
    https://www.aaroncohen-gadol.com/en/patients/arteriovenous-fistula/types/diagnosing
    The best way to diagnose AVFs involves a combination of non-invasive imaging techniques, followed by invasive angiography when necessary. […] This classification helps doctors understand the blood flow pattern and risks associated with different types of AVFs. […] On a computed tomography (CT) scan, an arteriovenous fistula typically appears as an area of increased density or abnormal contrast enhancement. […] Cerebral angiography, on the other hand, offers a more detailed and dynamic view of arteriovenous fistulas. […] The treatment options for dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) can be categorized into three main approaches: endovascular embolization, surgery, and radiosurgery. […] Diagnosis of AVFs combines non-invasive imaging and, when needed, invasive angiography.
  • #58 Arteriovenous fistula – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arteriovenous-fistula/symptoms-causes/syc-20369567
    An arteriovenous (AV) fistula is an irregular connection between an artery and a vein. […] Treatment for arteriovenous fistulas includes monitoring, compression, catheter-based procedures and, sometimes, surgery. […] If you have signs and symptoms of an arteriovenous fistula, make an appointment to see your health care provider. Early detection of an arteriovenous fistula may make the condition easier to treat. […] Arteriovenous fistulas may be present at birth (congenital) or they may occur later in life (acquired). […] Left untreated, an arteriovenous fistula can cause complications. Some complications may be serious.
  • #59 Dural Arteriovenous Fistula (DAVF) – Cerebrovascular Disease | UCLA Health
    https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/neurosurgery/cerebrovascular/conditions/dural-arteriovenous-fistula-davf
    Arteriovenous fistulas occur when abnormal connections form directly from arteries to veins. In the nervous system, this direct connection most commonly occurs in the covering of the brain and spinal cord called the dura mater. When this connection occurs in the dura mater, they are called Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas (DAVFs). These fistulas lead to a buildup of pressure in the veins surrounding the brain or spinal cord, and can result in nervous system dysfunction, seizure, and hemorrhage. […] If a DAVF is suspected, it is important to make a diagnosis and consult with a specialist quickly to prevent worsening of the disease. At UCLA, we use the most advanced technology and latest imaging systems to diagnose arteriovenous fistulas of the brain and spine quickly and accurately. […] During your examination, your expert team may use the following imaging techniques to locate and assess your AVF: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, including magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and venography (MRV), are used to identify and locate an AVF.