Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) are pathological, direct transcranial connections from extracranial arteries to intracranial venous sinuses or veins. DAVFs may lead to cortical venous reflux with supraphysiological flow and may subsequently rupture causing intracerebral, subarachnoidal, or subdural hemorrhages. Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) represents a valid option for selected DAVF cases. Overall, SRS leads to complete occlusion of the DAVF in approximately 60% of cases, (range 40–95%), at a follow-up ranging from 1 to 5 years.