Asian Spine J.  2014 Jun;8(3):365-370. 10.4184/asj.2014.8.3.365.

Arteriovenous Fistula of the Filum Terminale Misdiagnosed and Previously Operated as Lower Lumbar Degenerative Disease

• Sharma P
• Ranjan A
• Lath R

• KMID: 2270358
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4184/asj.2014.8.3.365

Abstract

Filum terminale arteriovenous fistula (FTAVF) presenting as a cause of failed back surgery syndrome is a rare entity. We report a 48-year-old male patient who presented with clinical features of a conus medullaris/cauda equina lesion. He had upper and lower motor neuron signs in both the lower limbs with autonomic dysfunction. The patient was misdiagnosed and was operated twice earlier for lumbar canal stenosis and disc prolapse. After reviewing his clinical and radiological findings a diagnosis of FTAVF was made. He underwent surgery and there was a significant improvement in his neurological functions. We discuss the case and review the literature on FTAVF's.

Keyword

Failed back surgery syndrome; Filum terminale arteriovenous fistula

MeSH Terms

Arteriovenous Fistula*
Cauda Equina*
Constriction, Pathologic
Conus Snail
Diagnosis
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
Humans
Lower Extremity
Male
Middle Aged
Motor Neurons
Prolapse