Spinal Arteriovenous Fistula

Spinal AVF is an abnormal vascular connection between arteries and veins of the spinal cord, often leading to progressive myelopathy. Clinical features include back pain, lower extremity weakness, sensory changes, and sphincter dysfunction. Pathophysiology involves venous hypertension causing ischemic injury to the spinal cord. Diagnosis relies on MRI, spinal angiography, and clinical correlation. Management includes endovascular embolization or microsurgical disconnection; prognosis depends on prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent irreversible neurological deficits.