Bilateral Cervical Spinal Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas with Intracranial Venous Drainage Mimicking a Foramen Magnum Dural Arteriovenous Fistula

Abstract

We describe a unique case of bilateral cervical spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas mimicking an intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula near the foramen magnum. We review its detection via MRI and digital subtraction angiography and subsequent management through surgical intervention. Pitfalls in diagnostic angiography are discussed with reference to accurate location of the fistula site. The venous anastomotic connections of the posterior midline spinal vein to the medial posterior medullary vein, posterior fossa bridging veins, and dural venous sinuses of the skull base are discussed with reference to problem-solving in this complex case. The mechanism of myelopathy through venous hypertension produced by spinal dural fistulas is also emphasized.