Transvenous Endovascular Treatment for Scalp Arteriovenous Fistulas: Results with Combined Use of Onyx and Coils

Abstract

Background: Scalp arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are rare lesions that may occur spontaneously or secondary to head trauma. A standard treatment strategy for these lesions has not been established to date. We present 3 cases of successful treatment of scalp AVFs using a combination of Onyx-18 and coils via a transvenous approach.

Methods: The patient database at Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China was reviewed, and patients with scalp AVFs treated with Onyx-18 and coils via a transvenous approach were identified for analysis.

Results: Between 2014 and 2016, 3 consecutive patients with scalp AVFs were treated transvenously with Onyx embolization in combination with coil placement at our hospital. No procedure-related complications were noted. Postembolization angiography demonstrated successful and complete occlusion of the AVFs immediately after treatment. Clinical follow-up showed resolution of symptoms.

Conclusions: The technique of transvenous "armored concrete" embolization using a combination of coils and Onyx is an effective treatment modality for scalp AVFs, particularly in type C cases.

Keywords: Armored concrete technique; Scalp arteriovenous fistula; Transvenous embolization.