Three-dimensional computed tomographic angiography in hemorrhagic cerebral arteriovenous malformation

Objective To assess the value of three-dimensional computed tomographic angiography (3D-CTA) in hemorrhagic cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM). Methods Nineteen patients with hemorrhagic cerebral AVM, admitted to our hospital from March 2007 to February 2011 and conformed by digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and operation, were examined by 3D-CTA. Results In these19 patients, 14 were noted as having AVM in the first examination of which 4 were performed surgical operation (hematoma evacuation and removal of abnormal vessels) directly by the lead of CTA images; the postoperative CTA images and DSA showed that the cerebral AVMs in these 4 patients were removed completely. Three patients, having negative results in the 1st 3D-CTA and DSA examinations, showed abnormal blood vessel mass by CTA re-check after 1 year; they were confirmed by DSA and operation. Two patients, having negative results in the 1st and 2nd Week's 3D-CTA examination,were noted as having small AVMS in DSA. Conclusion The 3D-CTA, being a non-injured, rapid,safe and effective way, can provide details and spacial relation image of the AVM which can assist the surgeon to possible intraoperative design; therefore, it fits for emergency examination of hemorrhagic Key words: Cerebral arteriovenous malformation;  Three-dimensional computed tomographic angiography