When baby Jordan came into the world, his parents were faced with news no family ever expects to hear: their newborn had a rare condition called a vein of Galen (VoG) malformation. This complex blood vessel problem in the brain can cause hydrocephalus, bleeding, and even heart failure. It was a frightening diagnosis—but Jordan’s family quickly found comfort in the compassionate, expert team at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

For Dr. Brijesh Mehta, Director of NeuroInterventional Surgery & Comprehensive Stroke Program at Memorial Healthcare System, cases like Jordan’s are why his work is so fulfilling.

From the very beginning, Jordan was surrounded by specialists in pediatric neurology, neurosurgery, and cardiology who carefully monitored his growth and development. Over time, imaging showed progressive hydrocephalus, signaling that intervention would be needed. Dr. Mehta, in collaboration with Dr. Darren Orbach of Boston Children’s Hospital, developed a precise treatment plan to address the malformation.

At just 9 weeks old, Jordan underwent a minimally invasive endovascular procedure in the newly expanded Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital cath lab, marking the first of its kind at the hospital. Using advanced cerebral angiography and precise coil embolization, Dr. Mehta successfully closed the malformation, significantly reducing the risk of rupture.  

Just two days after surgery, Jordan was able to go home as he was neurologically stable and free of complications. Today, he continues to see Dr. Monica Arroyo - a specialist in Fetal/Neonatal and Pediatric Neurology- who closely monitors his progress and follows up to ensure his continued growth and development.