SPINAL ARTERIOVENOUS FISTULA
A spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins in the dura, the outer lining of the spinal cord. Arteries and veins are the two types of major blood vessels in the body.

WHAT CAUSES A SPINAL FISTULA?
There is no known cause for most spinal dural fistulas, although some may be caused by previous surgeries or trauma to the area. Anyone can develop a spinal dural fistula, but they are most common in men ages 50 and older.