Central Nervous System Vascular Malformations

Overview

Central nervous system vascular malformations are abnormalities of blood vessels in your brain or spinal cord and their membranes.

Central nervous system vascular malformations are rare and include:

• Arteriovenous malformations. A brain (intracranial) arteriovenous malformation is an abnormal tangle of blood vessels in your brain.
• Capillary telangiectasias. Capillary telangiectasias are small dilated blood vessels (capillaries).
• Cavernous malformations. Cavernous malformations are abnormally formed blood vessels in your brain or spinal cord that have the appearance of a mulberry.
• Dural arteriovenous fistulas. Dural arteriovenous fistulas are abnormal connections between arteries and the tough covering over the brain or spinal cord (dura) and a draining vein.
• Spinal arteriovenous malformations. A spinal arteriovenous malformation is an abnormal tangle of blood vessels on, in or near your spinal cord.
• Venous malformations. Venous malformations are abnormally enlarged veins in your brain or spinal cord.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Teamwork. Mayo Clinic doctors trained in nervous system conditions (neurologists), brain, spine and peripheral nerve surgery (neurosurgeons), hereditary conditions (medical geneticists), radiology, radiation oncology and other specialties work together as a team to care for people who have central nervous system vascular malformations and other neurological conditions. Doctors trained in pediatric neurology treat children at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.
• Ongoing research. Doctors remain at the forefront of research to refine and improve diagnostic testing and treatment options for central nervous system vascular malformations.
• Technology. Mayo Clinic doctors use an extensive amount of technology, including advanced imaging tests, to diagnose your condition.
• Treatment expertise. Mayo Clinic offers a variety of treatment options, including stereotactic radiosurgery and endovascular procedures. Your doctor will work with you to create an individualized treatment plan to help you manage your condition.
• Efficiency. In Mayo Clinic's efficient system, your testing and treatment can be done in days, not weeks.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic also ranks among the Best Children's Hospitals in neurology and neurosurgery.

Read more about arteriovenous malformation at MayoClinic.com.