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Vein of Galen Aneurysmal Malformation (VGAM)

Vein of Galen Aneurysmal Malformation (VGAM)

A Vein of Galen malformation is a specific type of arteriovenous malformation, where a fetal precursor to the Vein of Galen (the vein of Markowski) is supplied directly by arteries and persists at birth as a high-flow shunt between the arterial and venous circulation in the brain. Some VGAM patients are diagnosed in utero or shortly after birth, and others are diagnosed as infants. However, in all cases, the high flow through the shunt creates an increased demand on the heart, leading to heart failure.

Investigation in our lab has focused on characterizing the hemodynamic parameters of these shunts. This work may pave the way for better risk stratification and treatment planning for these patients.

Funding: AHA #16SDG30420005

Publications:

  1. Wu C. et al. Complex Alterations of Intracranial 4-Dimensional Hemodynamics in Vein of Galen Aneurysmal Malformations During Staged Endovascular Embolization. Operative Neurosurgery, Volume 12, Issue 3, 1 September 2016, Pages 239–249, https://doi.org/10.1227/NEU.0000000000001137.