Definition

Spinal vascular disorders include abnormal blood vessels in or around the spinal cord, such as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), fistulae, and cavernous malformations.

Prevalence

Rare, but potentially serious due to risk of bleeding or progressive neurological decline.

Symptoms

• Progressive weakness or numbness

• Back pain

• Walking difficulty

• Bowel or bladder dysfunction

• Sudden symptoms if bleeding occurs

Diagnosis

• MRI of the spine

• Spinal angiography (gold standard)

• CT or MR myelography

• Neurological assessment

Treatment Options

• Endovascular embolisation

• Microsurgical disconnection

• Observation for small, stable lesions

• Rehabilitation for recovery of function