INTRODUCCION Spinal vascular malformations (SVM) are rare and still underdiagnosed entities. If not properly treated, SVM typically lead to progressive spinal-cord symptoms and myelopathy. Depending on the type of vascular malformation, presenting symptoms may vary between acute or progressive myelopathy. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical, imaging features, management, and outcome of nine patients with SVM.

METHODS: We reviewed 14 medical records and MRIs of patients with SVM seen between 2003-2013.RESULTS: Seven patients had arteriovenous malformations, one a pial, and another duralarteriovenous fistula. Mean age at presentation was 5.9 years. Most-common symptoms were: paresthesia (5), lower-limb pain and weakness (5), sphincter involvement (2), and cervical bruit (2). MRI of patients with arteriovenous malformations showed flow voids and bright intramedullary lesions in T2 according to the region involved. Perimedullary arteriovenous fistulas usually occurred on the spinal-cord surface and were supplied by medullary arteries. Digital angiography confirmed the diagnosis. Endovascular embolization was performed in five and combined embolization and surgery in two. In one patient no treatment was possible. Outcome: After a 6-8 month follow-up, patients had no more paresthesia or pain and showed slow and progressive motor and sensory improvement and sphincter control. Four patients with arteriovenous malformations were monitored with digital subtraction angiography and no recurrences were observed. CONCLUSIONS:SVM are rare entities to be considered in the face of a variety of neurological symptoms. Clinical suspicion together with MRI and digital angiography allow for diagnosis and early treatment. Surgery and/or embolization are the management of choice.