Learn about Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Dural Arteriovenous Fistula and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Dural Arteriovenous Fistula

A dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) is an abnormal, direct connection between an artery and a vein within the tough outer covering of the brain or spinal cord (the dura mater). This condition disrupts normal blood flow, potentially diverting high-pressure arterial blood directly into low-pressure venous channels. In vascular surgery, treatment typically involves a precise procedure called endovascular embolization. This minimally invasive approach involves threading a thin catheter through the blood vessels to the site of the fistula, where specialized materials like coils, glue, or liquid embolic agents are deployed to block the abnormal connection and restore normal circulation. The goal is to eliminate the risk of hemorrhage, reduce neurological symptoms like pulsatile tinnitus or vision changes, and prevent progressive neurological deficits or life-threatening complications such as intracranial hemorrhage.

Key Highlights

    Minimally invasive endovascular approach often avoids open brain surgery.Effectively eliminates the abnormal connection to prevent life-threatening hemorrhage.Can significantly reduce or resolve symptoms like pulsatile tinnitus, headaches, and vision problems.Performed by highly specialized neurovascular surgeons and interventional neuroradiologists.Uses advanced imaging guidance for precise, targeted treatment.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Presence of a dAVF with cortical venous drainage (CVD), which carries a high risk of hemorrhage.
  • Progressive neurological deficits such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty with speech.
  • Intractable symptoms like pulsatile tinnitus (whooshing sound in the ear) or vision changes.
  • Evidence of venous hypertension or congestion in the brain or spinal cord.
  • Prior hemorrhage (bleeding) from the dAVF.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive diagnostic imaging, including cerebral angiography (the gold standard), MRI, or MRA.
  • Complete neurological examination and review of medical history.
  • Pre-operative blood tests and assessment of kidney function (for contrast dye).
  • Discussion of medications; may need to stop blood thinners (anticoagulants/antiplatelets) days before.
  • Fasting for several hours prior to the procedure as instructed.

Risks & possible complications

  • Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) from vessel injury or clot.
  • Bleeding or hematoma at the catheter insertion site (usually in the groin).
  • Infection, though rare with sterile technique.
  • Allergic reaction to the contrast dye used during imaging.
  • Incomplete occlusion of the fistula, requiring further treatment.
  • Rarely, new neurological deficits if normal blood vessels are affected.
  • Kidney injury from contrast dye in patients with pre-existing conditions.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial monitoring in a recovery area, often requiring 4-6 hours of bed rest to prevent bleeding from the access site.
  • Hospital stay typically for observation, managing pain, and monitoring neurological status.
  • Instructions to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and bending for 1-2 weeks.
  • Follow-up imaging (like an MRA or angiography) is scheduled to confirm the fistula is closed.
  • Gradual return to normal activities as approved by the surgical team, with ongoing neurological assessments.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 2-4 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 2-4 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full stabilization

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering dural arteriovenous fistula in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for dural arteriovenous fistula compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 3,807 – USD 8,701 2-4 days ~ 2-4 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full stabilization Know More
Turkey USD 28,184 – USD 64,420 2-4 days ~ 2-4 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full stabilization Know More

Top hospitals for Dural Arteriovenous Fistula in Turkey

These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated vascular surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing dural arteriovenous fistula.

Liv Hospital Ankara

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon140 Doctors

Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon38 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

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