KMCH Interventional Radiology

Ministry of Health Ministry of Health (MOH) is an innovative, people-centred organisation, committed to medical excellence, the promotion of good health, the reduction of illness and access to good and affordable healthcare for all Singaporeans, appropriate to their needs.

Living in the Shadows: How DAVFs Can Tear Apart Lives and Love.

Dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) are abnormal connections between arteries and venous sinuses or veins in the brain. Symptoms can vary depending on the location and the pattern of DAVF, but they can include headaches, pulsatile tinnitus, neurological deficits,cognitive impairment and even seizures.

A 30 year old male patient suffering from headache, cognitive impairment, depression, and severe family and social issues due to an undiagnosed DAVF (Dural Arteriovenous Fistula) faced significant life challenges. His condition led to a year of unemployment, a divorce case, and a financial burden of paying compensation to his wife.

Upon arriving at our hospital, we accurately diagnosed the DAVF and successfully treated it with a minimally invasive endovascular procedure, leaving no scars. The patient was discharged after just 48 hours, free from headaches and other symptoms.

This case highlights the critical importance of ruling out organic causes in patients presenting with cognitive and psychological issues. Endovascular specialist plays a vital role in diagnosing and treating such conditions, providing effective solutions with minimal recovery time.

Dr Mathew Cherian, head of IR at KMCH, along with other national leaders in Radiology and Philips executives launch the CT 7500 Philips's latest dual layer spectral CT at the Philips spectral and AI summit 2023.