Vein of Galen Malformations are abnormal connections between arteries (blood vessels that carry blood to the body) and the deep draining veins (blood vessels that return blood to the heart). In vascular malformations such as Vein of Galen malformations there are no capillaries (very small blood vessels that normally connect arteries to veins).

Capillaries function to slow blood flow so that the normal transfer of oxygen between blood and body tissue can take place. Since Vein of Galen malformations lack capillaries, the blood flow can be extremely fast, increasing the workload of the heart. The result can be cardiac failure (the most common concern in the newborn). This high flow can also interfere with the normal blood drainage of the brain resulting in hydrocephalus, or "water on the brain."

If left untreated, this condition results in abnormal brain development resulting in mental retardation or death. Consequently, it is extremely important that children with these sorts of malformations be evaluated at medical centers with an expertise in differentiating these conditions so that the appropriate treatment is delivered.

Vein of Galen malformations have proven to be very difficult to treat using standard surgical procedures. However, an alternative treatment called an endovascular embolization can provide significant improvements to this condition. Using this technique, a catheter is placed into a large artery of the body and with x-ray guidance is advanced through the circulatory system until it reaches the problem site. Successful treatment involves many stages of endovascular embolization over a long period of time. The Center for Endovascular Surgery, headed by Dr. Alejandro Berenstein, has had extensive experience with Vein of Galen malformations.

Proper diagnosis is essential in determining the course of treatment. A specialty site like the Center for Endovascular Surgery, a division of the Hyman-Newman Institute for Neurology and Neurosurgery (INN), provides a multidisciplinary approach in treating these problems. The individual condition is reviewed and discussed by a group of expert physicians with a broad range of experience and knowledge of these conditions. Interventional neuroradiologists, neurosurgeons, neurologists and critical care physicians will devise the best treatment plan available. When combined with the INN's unique family-oriented approach to caring for patients, we offer a comprehensive option few other medical centers can match.