Successful embolization of a spinal perimedullary arteriovenous fistula with cellulose acetate polymer solution: Technical case report

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE: Spinal perimedullary arteriovenous fistulae are rarely reported in the literature and can be treated via both endovascular and direct surgical approaches. Coils, glues, and balloons have all been used to embolize these fistulae. Cellulose acetate polymer (CAP) solution is a liquid embolic material that was originally developed for thrombosis of cerebral aneurysms. This is the first report of CAP solution being used to treat a spinal perimedullary arteriovenous fistula, with changes in the viscosity of the solution. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: A 15-year-old boy experienced spinal subarachnoid hemorrhage without any neurological deficits. A radiological examination revealed a spinal perimedullary arteriovenous fistula (Type 2) at the L1 level. INTERVENTION: Transarterial embolization was performed with local anesthesia. The microcatheter was navigated through the anterior spinal artery to a site just proximal to the fistula. After provocative testing demonstrated negative results, CAP solution was injected and the fistula was completely closed, without complications. The patient experienced an uneventful postoperative course. CONCLUSION: We describe the usefulness of CAP solution in the treatment of a spinal perimedullary arteriovenous fistula. This procedure must be performed for a larger series of patients for assessment of its long-term results.