Transvenous embolization of a ruptured thalamic arteriovenous malformation supplied by the tuberothalamic artery

BACKGROUND: Basal ganglia and thalamic arteriovenous malformations (AVM) represent 10% of all AVM. They are associated with a high rate of morbidity and mortality due to their high hemorrhagic presentation and eloquence. Radiosurgery has been the first line treatment, whereas surgical removal and endovascular therapy are possible in selected cases. Deep AVM with small niduses and a single draining vein can achieve cure with embolization. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 10-year-old boy with sudden headache and vomiting underwent a brain computed tomography scan that showed a right thalamic hematoma. Cerebral angiography revealed a small ruptured right anteromedial thalamic AVM with a single feeder arising from the tuberothalamic artery and a single drainage to the superior thalamic vein. Transvenous approach using precipitating hydrophobic injectable liquid 25%(®) achieved a complete obliteration of the lesion in a single-session. He was discharged home without neurological sequelae and maintained clinically intact at follow-up. CONCLUSION: Transvenous embolization of deep-located AVM as a primary treatment is curative in selected cases, with complication rates comparable to other therapeutic strategies.