Percutaneous Intravertebral Body Embolization of a Traumatic Spinal Epidural Arteriovenous Fistula with Secondary Perimedullary Venous Reflux

Abstract

Arteriovenous fistulas following vertebral fractures are probably very rare. We present a case with fistulous connection between arteries and veins within the fractured 12^th thoracic vertebral body with retrograde venous drainage to perimedullary veins resulting in spinal venous hypertension and a cauda equina like symptomatology.

Pre-treatment 3D CT enabled us to puncture the venous pouch within the vertebra and deposit glue in the vertebral fistula. The procedure led to a complete occlusion of the fistula and relief of pain and neurological symptoms.