Neurointerventional procedures in the pediatric age group

Over the past 15 years there have been significant changes in the field of interventional neuroradiology, which have led to the inclusion of this spec ialty in the management of pediatric patients with vascular disorders of th e central nervous system. Miniaturization of the devices and improvements i n the embolic materials used have made it possible to perform endovascular therapy safely on neonates, infants and children. The role of endovascular therapy in the management of patients presenting with vein of Galen malform ations and dural arteriovenous shunts has become deafly established. Endova scular therapists have also become important members of multidisciplinary t eams managing patients with arteriovenous malformations of the brain and sp inal cord. The role of endovascular therapy in the management of children w ith intracranial aneurysms is rapidly evolving, and experience with thrombo lytic intra-arterial therapy for acute ischemic stroke is just gaining mome ntum. It is anticipated that in the future the role of endovascular therapy will continue to grow as part of the multidisciplinary team approach to th e management of children presenting with complex vascular diseases of the c entral nervous system.