Dr. Tigran Khachatryan, MD, PhD.

Dural Arteriovenous Fistula (dAVF)

Dural Arteriovenous Fistula of the Brain: Evaluation and Treatment

Hearing a pulsing “whoosh,” having new headaches, or being told an imaging scan looks abnormal can feel unsettling. If you have been referred for Brain Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Treatment in Glendale, CA, the first step is to understand what this diagnosis means and what your treatment options may be.

What is a Brain Dural Arteriovenous Fistula (DAVF)?

A brain dural arteriovenous fistula, often referred to as a DAVF, is an abnormal connection between an artery and a vein located in the dura, the outermost layer of the brain. Instead of blood flowing through the usual small vessels, a DAVF can send blood directly into veins under higher pressure.

Not every DAVF behaves the same way. The location of the fistula and the way it drains into nearby veins matter because they can affect symptoms and risk. Some DAVFs are identified during a workup for tinnitus or headaches, while others are discovered after more severe symptoms have developed.

Brain Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Treatment in Glendale, CA

For many patients, the goal is to confirm the diagnosis clearly, understand the drainage pattern, and determine whether treatment, monitoring, or additional consultation is the safest course of action. I am Tigran Khachatryan, MD, PhD, a fellowship-trained interventional neurologist with board certifications in general neurology and vascular neurology.

I provide evaluation and treatment for complex neurovascular conditions as a neurovascular and endovascular neurologist practicing at the Armenian Neuroscience Institute. If you are looking for a Brain Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Specialist in Glendale, CA, my practice focuses on evidence-based decision-making and minimally invasive neurointerventional care when it is appropriate.

When a patient needs Brain Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Treatment in Glendale, I take time to explain the findings in plain language and review the benefits and risks of each option based on the individual situation.

Some patients also search for a Brain DAVF Specialist in Glendale when symptoms feel urgent or confusing. During visits, I focus on providing clear answers, conducting a careful review of imaging, and developing a plan tailored to your condition and health goals.

Procedures and Tests I May Use to Diagnose and Treat a Brain DAVF

The exact approach depends on your history, exam, and imaging. For CSF–Venous Fistula evaluation and care, the procedures I may use include the following.

01.

Diagnostic Cerebral Angiogram

In many cases, the most detailed way to map a DAVF is a diagnostic cerebral angiogram. This test displays blood flow in real-time and helps define the exact location and drainage pattern, which can guide subsequent steps.

02.

Endovascular Embolization for a Dural Arteriovenous Fistula

For selected DAVFs, treatment can be performed from inside the blood vessels using a minimally invasive approach called embolization. The goal is to reduce or close off the abnormal connection, depending on the DAVF anatomy and drainage pattern.

03.

Follow-up Planning and Monitoring

After evaluation or treatment, follow-up may include office visits and imaging to confirm stability or treatment results. The proper schedule depends on your symptoms, the type of DAVF, and the results of your studies.

Symptoms That May Suggest a Brain DAVF

Symptoms can vary widely. Some people have mild symptoms for months, while others develop sudden neurological problems. Common symptoms may include:

If you develop a sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, confusion, or seizure activity, call 911 to seek emergency care right away.

Causes and Risk Factors of Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas

A DAVF is often considered an acquired condition, meaning it can develop over time. In some patients, a clear cause is never identified. Factors that may be associated include:

During your visit, I will review your medical history and imaging to identify factors that may impact treatment planning.

Request an Appointment in Glendale

When you need brain dural arteriovenous fistula treatment in Glendale, CA, I see patients at the Armenian Neuroscience Institute in Glendale, located at 1505 Wilson Terrace, Suite 150, Glendale, CA 91206.

Appointments are required, and my office can help with expedited consultations when appropriate. For patients seeking a Brain Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Specialist in Glendale, CA, you can call +1 (833) 888-9933 during business hours, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

My clinic hours are Monday and Wednesday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you are searching for Brain Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Treatment near Glendale, CA, my team can also help you understand what records are needed before your visit.

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