The Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey is a team of board-certified neurologists and neurosurgeons who provide expert care for a variety of pediatric neurological conditions, including cavernomas (cavernous malformations) and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and innovative treatment techniques to ensure the best outcomes for your child.
The Physical Impact
Cavernomas are clusters of abnormally dilated blood vessels that resemble a small mulberry-like lesion. They can occur in the brain or spinal cord and may leak blood, potentially causing stroke-like symptoms, seizures, or neurological deficits. AVMs, on the other hand, are tangled networks of arteries and veins that disrupt normal blood flow. This abnormality increases the risk of rupture and bleeding into surrounding brain tissue, potentially leading to serious complications such as hemorrhages, seizures, or neurological impairment. Both cavernomas and AVMs can vary in size and location, influencing how they affect your child's neurological function and quality of life.
How Common Is This Condition?
Cavernomas are relatively uncommon, affecting roughly 0.5% of the general population, with many people never experiencing symptoms. AVMs are also rare, estimated to occur in about 10 in every 100,000 individuals. They can be present at birth (congenital) but may not manifest symptoms until later in life.
Risk Factors:
- Congenital development during fetal growth
- Family history of vascular malformations
- Genetic conditions associated with abnormal blood vessels
- Prior exposure to high-dose radiation in rare cases
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of cavernomas and AVMs depend on their size, location, and whether they have bled. Common signs include:
- Headaches
- Seizures
- Weakness or numbness in the limbs
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
- Vision or speech problems
- Neurological deficits following a hemorrhage
How We Diagnose
At the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, diagnosing cavernomas and AVMs involves a comprehensive evaluation of your child's symptoms, medical history, and overall health. We rely on advanced imaging techniques to identify these abnormalities and guide our treatment approach. Key diagnostic tools include:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Offers detailed images to detect cavernomas and assess their size and location.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Helps identify bleeding or structural changes in the brain.
- Angiography: Provides a clear map of the abnormal blood vessels, crucial for understanding an AVM's structure and blood flow.
- Neurological Evaluation: Assesses how the abnormality impacts brain function and overall neurological health.
This thorough diagnostic process ensures an accurate understanding of the condition and enables us to create a tailored treatment plan for your child.
Treatment Options
Treatment for cavernomas and AVMs focuses on reducing the risk of complications, alleviating symptoms, and preserving neurological function. Options include:
- Observation: Small, asymptomatic lesions may be monitored with periodic imaging.
- Endovascular Embolization (for AVMs): Minimally invasive procedures to block abnormal blood flow and reduce bleeding risk.
- Surgery: Removal of the malformation to relieve pressure and prevent future hemorrhages.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery (for AVMs): Focused radiation to gradually shrink the abnormal blood vessels over time.
The Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey applies a multidisciplinary approach and utilizes cutting-edge techniques, ensuring each child receives the most effective and least invasive treatment possible.
Our Commitment to Your Child's Health
“I am neurosurgeon living in New Jersey, board-certified by both the American Board of Neurosurgery (ABNS) and Pediatric Neurosurgery (ABPNS). I specialize in the surgical treatment of complex epilepsy and serve as the Director of the Epilepsy Institute of New Jersey, Chief of Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery at Sanzari Children's Hospital, and Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Children's Hospital of NJ, where I provide exceptional care for children with complex neurological conditions. Your child's health and well-being are our top priorities.”
