Vertebral Arteriovenous Fistula: An Unwelcome Thrill

Abstract EN

Cervical vertebral AV fistulae are uncommon vascular lesions involving abnormal communication between the extradural vertebral artery and surrounding venous structures.

We examine the case of a female evaluated in the emergency department with a vertebral AV fistula presenting classically as pulsatile tinnitus and later successfully treated with standard endovascular techniques.

A discussion on the etiology, pathophysiology, and management of vertebral AV fistulae follows.