Paraspinal Arteriovenous Malformations

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) of the spine and spinal cord can be categorized as intradural AVMs, epidural AVMs, paraspinal AVMs, and mixed intradural/extradural AVMs. The term “paraspinal AVM” summarizes an inhomogeneous variety of rare vascular disorders. Bruit, thrill, vascular murmur, intradural or epidural hemorrhage, and acute progressive myelopathy are common symptoms of paraspinal AVMs. Paraspinal AVMs occur isolated or associated with genetic syndrome. Isolated paraspinal AVMs are either acquired, due to trauma. Congenital paraspinal AVMs are associated with systemic genetic background or metameric link. The route of venous drainage, either extraspinal or intraspinal, is mainly responsible for the symptoms. Endovascular treatment is considered as the first choice of treatment for most cases of paraspinal AVMs based on individual clinical and anatomical criteria. In this chapter, the etiology, clinical features, treatment options, and outcomes are discussed for paraspinal AVMs.