Cerebral Abscess After Onyx Embolization of an Arteriovenous Malformation

Publication Date

2020

Journal Title

World Neurosurg

Abstract

© 2019 Elsevier Inc. Background: Endovascular embolization is being increasingly used to treat cerebral arteriovenous malformations. Common complications associated with embolization include intracranial hemorrhage and ischemic stroke; intracranial infections seldomly occur and are even less frequently reported. Although abscess formation after embolization is exceedingly rare, it is a serious condition that warrants immediate attention. Case Description: This 53-year-old male with a ruptured left temporal-occipital arteriovenous malformation. He underwent uncomplicated 2-stage embolization with Onyx and was discharged. Five weeks after embolization, he returned to the hospital with worsening aphasia and contralateral hemiparesis, and a cerebral abscess was detected at the site of embolization. Bacterial cultures were positive for Escherichia coli, and he was treated successfully with surgical excision of the abscess and Onyx material, followed by long-term antibiotics. Conclusions: Although rare, formation of an intracranial abscess after endovascular embolization is a potential complication in the treatment of arteriovenous malformations.

Volume Number

135

Pages

96 - 99

Document Type

Article

Status

Faculty, Northwell Resident

Facility

School of Medicine; Northwell Health

Primary Department

Neurosurgery

Additional Departments

Neurology; Otolaryngology; Radiology

PMID

31841721

DOI

10.1016/j.wneu.2019.12.009

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