Endovascular embolization for vascular malformation of cervical spinal cord

Objectives To evaluate the clinical and radiological characteristic of vascular malformations of the cervical spinal cord, and to report the therapeutic effects of endovascular embolization. Methods Data from 21 patients (From January, 1991 to June 2000) with vascular malformation of the cervical spinal cord were analyzed retrospectively with an emphasis on the therapeutic methods. Results The 21 patients were treated by vascular embolization with silk partite and/or NBCA. Over 90% malformation was occluded in 7 patients,80%-90%, in 8, 60%-80% in 4, and less than 60% in 2. Symptomatic relief was seen in 15 patients, no change in 5 and 1 died 3 months after surgery. Conclusion Endovascular embolization is effective in the treatment of vascular malformation of cervical spinal cord.