Successful embolization of ventricular arteriovenous malformation supplied by the choroidal artery: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Background: Ventricular arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are localized in the ventricles and are mainly fed by the anterior choroidal artery (AChoA) and posterior choroidal artery (PChoA). Surgical resection of ventricular AVMs is difficult as the lesions are localized deep in the brain. Therefore, endovascular treatment is expected to treat ventricular AVMs. However, embolization from the AChoA and PChoA carries the risk of ischemic complications. Even though there are some major reports on embolization strategies from the choroidal arteries, embolization of these arteries remains technically challenging. In this article, we report two successful cases of ventricular AVM embolization using AChoA and PChoA. Case Description: Case 1: A 34-year-old male presented with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). Subsequently, ventricular AVM embolization in the anterior horn was performed using n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA) through the AChoA and medial PChoA, and complete obliteration was observed without neurological deterioration. Case 2: A 71-year-old female presented with IVH. Subsequently, ventricular AVM embolization in the lateral ventricle was performed through the AChoA and lateral PChoA with Onyx and NBCA, and partial obliteration was observed without complications. Furthermore, Gamma Knife surgery for residual lesions resulted in complete obliteration. Conclusion: Embolization through the choroidal arteries for ventricular AVMs is an effective curative or adjunctive treatment.