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Abstract

Techniques in Neurosurgery & Neurology

Microsurgical Treatment of Brain Arteriovenous Malformations in Sub-Saharan Africa, About a Series of 14 Patients Treated in Senegal

Submission: November 11, 2017; Published: January 30, 2018

DOI: 10.31031/TNN.2018.01.000509

ISSN 2637-7748
Volume1 Issue2

Abstract

Brain Arteriovenous malformations are difficult lesions to manage surgically. In sub-Saharan Africa the lack of adequate medical equipment make them more challenging because surgery remains the only option. The aim of this report is to demonstrate the results of microsurgical treatment of b AVMS in these less than ideal conditions.

Methods: We reviewed retrospectively 14 consecutive cases of b AVMs operated on in Senegal. Patient characteristics, radiological data and outcomes have been analysed.

Results: There were 29 cases of bAVMs that were received in our department in the 3 year period, and among those, there were 14 cases for which operations were performed. The patient ages ranged from 7 to 64 years (mean age: 37.6 years). Ten patients were male and 4 were female. Twelve patients presented with ruptured AVM. The mean AVM size was 3.6 cm. According to Spetzler-Martin grade, 5 AVM were I, 6 were II, 2 were III and one was grade IV. No intranidal aneurysm was found. Two patients died preoperatively. According to mRS, for the 12 patients available to follow-up, 9 patients had good outcome (mRS 0 to 2) and 3 patients had poor outcome (mRS 3 and 4).

Conclusion: In sub-Saharan Africa this pathology is even more difficult to manage due to under-equipment conditions but judicious selection of patients and the surgical strategy are secrets for good results.

Keywords: Subsaharan Africa; bAVMS; Microsurgery

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