Cerebral vascular malformations and their imaging modalities

Cerebrovascular malformations are uncommon diverse group of dysmorphic vascular communications that may occur sporadically or as part of genetic syndromes. These include non-neoplastic lesions such as arteriovenous malformations (AVM), cavernous malformations (CM), developmental venous anomalies (DVA), and telangiectasias as well as others like arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), vein of Galen malformations (VOGM), and mixed or unclassified angiomas. These lesions often carry a high degree of morbidity and mortality often requiring surgical or endovascular interventions. The field of cerebrovascular anomalies has seen considerable advancement in the last few years. Treatment and management options of various types of brain anomalies have evolved in neurological, neurosurgical, and neuro-interventional radiology arena. The use of radiological imaging studies is a critical element for treatment of such neurosurgical cases. As imaging modalities continue to evolve at a rapid pace, it is imperative for neurological surgeons to be familiar with current imaging modalities essential for a precise diagnosis. Better understanding of these cerebrovascular lesions along with their associated imaging findings assists in determining the appropriate treatment options. In the current review, authors highlight various cerebrovascular malformations and their current imaging modalities.