Spinal vascular malformations are abnormal connections between arteries and veins that may have a central nidus (arteriovenous malformation) or just a simple high flow connection (arteriovenous fistula).  Spinal vascular malformations may involve the vertebral bodies, the spinal cord, the tissues surrounding the cord, or a combination of these locations.  These vascular malformations may cause symptoms of sensory loss, weakness and paralysis.  Symptoms can occur acutely, or may take years to develop.  The lesions are treated either with endovascular embolization or with surgery, depending on the location and type of the arterial supply.  With prompt diagnosis and treatment, neurologic dysfunction can be halted, and possibly even reversed.