Haemodynamic evaluation of cerebral arteriovenous malformations by quantification of transit time using high speed digital subtraction angiography: basic considerations

It is important to evaluate the haemodynamics of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in order to predict and avoid complications following surgical intervention. This study measured the transit time of each component of AVMs by high-speed digital subtraction angiography (DSA) to understand the haemodynamics and to evaluate which parameter is an appropriate indicator for the monitoring. Eleven cases of cerebral AVMs were studied. Haemodynamics were evaluated by analysis of tracer transit using DSA. Tracer transit parameters including transit time and peak time were calculated by application of gamma fitting to time density curve, and measured in the following compartments; feeding artery, nidus and draining vein. Significant correlations of tracer transit parameters were present among compartments. Although there was no significant correlation of nidus volume and tracer transit parameters, the peak time was shorter in haemorrhage cases than in non-haemorrhage cases. Measurements of tracer transit parameters by high-speed DSA may be a useful tool for characterising and monitoring the haemodynamics of AVMs following surgical intervention. (C) 2000 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.