Non-Sinus-Type Dural Arteriovenous Fistula at the Foramen Magnum: A Review of the Literature

Dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) of the foramen magnum (FM) region is rare. Moreover, terminology dAVF very confusing in this region. In narrow sense, FM non-sinus-type with direct venous reflux to medulla oblongata or spinal cord via bridging veins (BVs) FM. Previous literature was systematically reviewed investigate clinical characteristics, angioarchitecture, and effective treatment dAVF. From review, almost all feeders were dural branches. Spinal pial arteries rarely involved as feeder. All lesions had medullary BVs. The characterized by a significant male predominance high incidence aggressive symptoms. most common symptom congestive myelopathy, followed hemorrhage. differs from craniocervical junction (CCJ) (AVF) similar thoracolumbar Direct surgery for safe. Endovascular may be more has lower complication rates than that CCJ AVF.