Correlation between time to diagnosis and rehabilitation outcomes in patients with spinal dural arteriovenous fistula

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs) are the most common spinal vascular malformations but are often underdiagnosed, leading to myelopathy. This study investigates the relationship between the time it takes to diagnose SDAVF and the success of rehabilitation. Delays in diagnosis can occur because initial symptoms, such as leg pain, bowel or bladder issues, mimic other conditions. Patients often undergo unnecessary procedures before the correct diagnosis is made. The study found that early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for better rehabilitation outcomes. Patients diagnosed and treated sooner had a higher chance of regaining functional ambulation.

• 1
  A significant correlation was found between time to diagnosis and the height of the SDAVF, with patients diagnosed late and with high SDAVF having the poorest prognosis.
• 2
  Strong correlations were found between LEMS, FIM, SCIM, and WISC II scores and the functional level according to the ALS scale, indicating a relationship between motor function, independence, and overall prognosis.
• 3
  Most patients (five out of eight) remained wheelchair-dependent after rehabilitation, highlighting the severity of the condition and the limitations of current treatments when diagnosis is delayed.