Vein of Galen Malformation
Vein of Galen malformation (VOGM) is a rare blood vessel condition that develops before birth. In this disorder, certain arteries in the brain connect directly to a deep central vein, bypassing the small capillaries that usually slow blood flow. This abnormal connection causes blood to rush into the vein at high pressure, placing extra stress on a baby’s heart and potentially impacting brain development.
How It Develops
VOGM arises during fetal development, usually in the first trimester, while the brain’s blood vessels are forming. Instead of taking the normal path through tiny capillaries, several arteries connect directly into the vein of Galen, a large vein at the base of the brain. This abnormal connection causes the vein to become dilated (enlarged) from the unusually strong and rapid blood flow.
You can think of this like a network of roads. Normally, blood flows from small side streets (arteries) into neighborhood streets (capillaries) before joining a main road (the vein). In VOGM, some arteries skip the smaller streets and merge straight onto the highway. This “shortcut” makes blood flow too quickly and with too much force, putting extra strain on both the baby’s heart and developing brain.
Vein of Galen Malformation
When Baby Jordan was diagnosed with a rare vein of Galen malformation, his parents faced an uncertain future. Thanks to the expert care at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Jordan is now thriving.
Call to schedule an appointment with our vascular interventional neurology team:
954-265-3500Diagnosis
VOGM can sometimes be detected during prenatal ultrasound, but it is more often diagnosed shortly after birth or in early childhood. Doctors may first notice signs such as heart failure, an enlarged head, or neurological concerns in newborns and infants. In older children, symptoms like hydrocephalus, developmental delays, or seizures may lead to further evaluation.
At Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, our experts use advanced imaging tools such as MRI, CT scans, and angiography to confirm a vein of Galen (VoG) diagnosis and understand the extent of the malformation. These detailed images give our team a clear view of the abnormal blood flow and guide us in creating the safest, most effective treatment plan for each child.
Treatments
The main treatment for VOGM is endovascular embolization. In this minimally invasive procedure, a neuro-interventionalist guides a thin catheter through the blood vessels to the malformation and uses special materials such as coils or embolic agents to block the abnormal connections and redirect blood flow. Supportive care, like medications to strengthen the heart or close monitoring of brain development, is also an important part of the care plan.
Recovery and Beyond
The outlook for children with VOGM can vary and depends on several factors, including how severe the malformation is, whether complications are present, and when treatment begins. With early diagnosis and timely care, especially using endovascular embolization, many children achieve much better outcomes than in the past. Some cases are more complex and challenging to treat, so long-term results may differ, but with close monitoring and specialized care, many children are able to grow, learn, and thrive.
