AANS Beyond 2021: Full Collection-Pediatric Cavernous Malformations

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Emeritus Neurosurgeon-in-Chief Michael Scott from Boston Children's Hospital and professor of neurosurgery at Harvard Medical School discusses cavernous malformations in pediatric patients. He begins by sharing his personal interest in the topic and the discovery of cavernous malformations during his residency. He presents several cases to highlight the uncertain natural history of these lesions. Scott emphasizes that lesion size does not predict the likelihood of bleeding. He also discusses the management of lesions in eloquent areas, suggesting that observation may be suitable before deciding on definitive surgery. Scott further discusses the association between cavernous malformations and other venous anomalies such as developmental venous anomalies, cortical telangiectasias, and arteriovenous fistulae. He presents cases to illustrate the various manifestations of these vascular anomalies and discusses the surgical approaches used to treat them. Scott concludes by highlighting the variability and unpredictability of cavernous malformation natural history in pediatric patients and emphasizes the importance of carefully weighing the risks and benefits of surgery before proceeding. He also mentions the need for continued research and innovative approaches to improve the management of these lesions.

Keywords

Neurosurgeon-in-Chief

cavernous malformations

pediatric patients

lesion size

management of lesions

venous anomalies

surgical approaches