What is a dural arteriovenous fistula? DAVF
A dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is a direct connection between an artery and a vein in the dura mater (dura). There is an increased pressure in the efferent vein. read moreWhat is a dural arteriovenous fistula? DAVF
A dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is a direct connection between an artery and a vein in the dura mater (dura). There is an increased pressure in the efferent vein.Cause and formation
Little is known about the cause of a DAVF. Usually it is not congenital and occurs over the course of life. A DAVF is more common after a brain trauma, infection, brain surgery, or other brain disorders.How common is a DAVF?
A DAVF is quite rare. It is unclear how many people have a DAVF in the brain. Every year, 1 in 10 million people are diagnosed with a DAVF.Symptoms
Complaints from a DAVF in the head are often tinnitus, pressure on the eyes, or a hemorrhage, causing immediate symptoms of loss of function or loss of consciousness.
Tests and diagnosis
An angiography (X-ray of the blood vessels) is required to find and map out the fistula. The images from the examination are discussed with the neurologist and radiologist specializing in the neurovascular system. read moreTests and diagnosis
An angiography (X-ray of the blood vessels) is required to find and map out the fistula. The images from the examination are discussed with the neurologist and radiologist specializing in the neurovascular system. The attending physician will discuss with you at the outpatient clinic what the best treatment is. When the damage to the nerve tissue is worsening, this is a reason for accelerated diagnostics and possible treatment.Life with a DAVF
After a DAVF, there are a number of things to consider. read moreLife with a DAVF
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When a DAVF is discovered, there is often uncertainty about activities that increase the pressure on the head. Examples include flying, diving, going on a roller coaster, pushing, going to the sauna, or having sex. There is no evidence that these activities increase the risk of a hemorrhage from a DAVF. These activities can therefore be carried out as usual.
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It is possible that a DAVF in the brain causes a slightly increased risk of bleeding during pregnancy. If you want to have a child, it is good to discuss with your doctor whether this is a reason to treat the DAVF.
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A DVAF in the brain is not hereditary.
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There are legal requirements for the suitability of driving motor vehicles according to the “requirements for fitness to drive” regulation of the health inspection. The CBR (Dutch Central Driving License Office) supervises compliance with this requirement.
If you have a DAVF with no symptoms that has not bled, there are no restrictions on the use of motor vehicles.
If the symptoms of the DAVF affect your ability to drive, your specialist will need to make a report about this. On the basis of this report, the Dutch central driver licensing office (CBR) can decide whether an additional independent medical examination or a driving test is required. Your medical specialist will write the report in addition to the CBR's declaration of health (website in Dutch).
In the case of epilepsy as a result of a DAVF, you can be declared fit to drive for a specific period after the end of a seizure-free period. The duration of the seizure-free period depends on several factors. Discuss with your specialist what applies to you.
A DAVF hemorrhage
The first symptom of a DAVF is unfortunately often a brain hemorrhage, a form of stroke. read moreA DAVF hemorrhage
About the hemorrhage
Symptoms
Hospitalization after a hemorrhage due to DAVF
In order to keep you and your loved ones informed of progress, weekly interviews will be organized with you, your medical team, and your loved ones during the hospitalization. During your admission after the hemorrhage, we will discuss a treatment plan with you and your loved ones.
Complaints
The nurse specialist will discuss follow-up appointments, advice on life rules, and taking up activities with you and your loved ones before being discharged.
Daily activities after a DAVF hemorrhage
The effects of a brain hemorrhage on resuming your daily life vary widely, depending on the severity of the hemorrhage. You will receive advice on how to resume your daily activities, work and hobbies from the nursing specialist, rehabilitation doctor, and/or company doctor.
If you are recovering from the hemorrhage, possibly while waiting for the treatment of the DAVF, there is often uncertainty about activities that increase the pressure on the head. Examples include flying, diving, going on a roller coaster, pushing, going to the sauna, or having sex. There is no evidence that these activities increase the risk of new bleeding from a DAVF. These activities can therefore be carried out as usual.