LAUSR

Background: Vein of Galen Malformation (VGM) is a complex vascular disorder with high morbidity and mortality. Mainstay management involves staged endovascular embolizations. Determining when to stop an embolization during any single intervention is challenging. If embolization is excessive, it precipitates thrombosis on the VGM, increase in cardiac post-load, and worsening on heart failure, as well as hemorrhages. Conversely, insufficient embolization may be futile. We report the use of transvenous pressure monitoring as an adjuvant for guiding the extent of embolization. Method: Arterial and venous accesses were obtained through the common femoral artery and vein, respectively. After diagnostic angiography, the best working projection was selected in early and late venous phases. A microcatheter was placed at the VG, and an intermediate 5 Fr. catheter was located at the persistent falcine sinus. The microcatheter was used for coil embolization, while the intermediate catheter provided support and was connected for continuous venous pressure monitoring. Continuous arterial pressure monitoring was obtained via an A-line and transduction of a glide catheter located in the carotid artery. Arterial and venous SBP were recorded. Result: Serial angiograms during treatment showed reduction of flow within the VGM. Concomitantly, there was an increase in the A-V-gradient over time (Figure 1). The difference between the A-V SBP went from 36 mmHg at the start of the case to 51 mmHg after the final coil. The average pressure gradient went from 38.3 mmHg in the first quarter to 43.5 mmHg in the last. Conclusion: The continuous assessment of transvenous pressure monitoring during embolization of VGM provides measurable changes that correlate with degree of flow. This quantifiable metric may be used as an adjunct to guide adequate reduction of flow during endovascular treatment of VGM.