Recordings from the 2025 Neuro-APP Symposium-Clipping Coiling Embolizing

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Christopher Izobor and Jen Judge, nurse practitioners at Boston Children’s Hospital, reviewed pediatric cerebrovascular disorders and their evaluation and treatment. They discussed diagnostic imaging, including MRI/MRA and cerebral angiography, and emphasized that care is individualized and often multidisciplinary.

For <strong>Moyamoya</strong>, progressive narrowing of brain arteries can cause strokes or transient ischemic attacks. Management may include aspirin and surgical revascularization, supported by careful hydration, blood-pressure control, and prevention of hyperventilation.

<strong>Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)</strong> carry a risk of hemorrhage. Evaluation and treatment planning may involve angiography, embolization, surgery, radiation, or observation. When possible, surgery is often preferred for children, and follow-up imaging checks for recurrence.

<strong>Cavernous malformations</strong> are low-flow lesions that can cause seizures, bleeding, or neurological symptoms. MRI is the key diagnostic test; treatment may involve monitoring, seizure medication, surgery, or, in selected cases, radiosurgery.

<strong>Vein of Galen malformations</strong> can overload the heart, especially in newborns. Treatment is typically endovascular embolization, urgently when heart failure develops or later when appropriate.

The speakers highlighted structured care protocols, long-term follow-up, and the essential roles of nurses and advanced practice providers.

Keywords

pediatric cerebrovascular disorders

Moyamoya

arteriovenous malformations

cavernous malformations

vein of Galen malformation

MRI/MRA

angiography

endovascular embolization