Spetzler-Martin grading
Pronunciation: SPETZ-ler MAR-tin GRAY-ding
Classification system for cerebral arteriovenous malformations based on size, eloquence of adjacent brain, and pattern of venous drainage. Used for surgical risk assessment.
Full Definition
The Spetzler-Martin grading system is a widely accepted classification scheme for cerebral arteriovenous malformations that stratifies lesions based on three key imaging characteristics: nidus size (small ≤3 cm = 1 point, medium 3-6 cm = 2 points, large >6 cm = 3 points), eloquence of adjacent brain tissue (non-eloquent = 0 points, eloquent = 1 point), and pattern of venous drainage (superficial only = 0 points, deep component = 1 point). The total score ranges from 1 to 5, with higher grades indicating increased surgical risk. This grading system helps guide treatment decisions and provides prognostic information regarding surgical morbidity and mortality. Grade I and II lesions are generally considered low surgical risk, while Grade IV and V lesions carry significant risk.
Usage
Usage note: Requires hyphen between surnames. Grade should be expressed as Roman numerals (I-V).
In Context
- "The AVM was assigned a Spetzler-Martin grade III based on its large size and deep venous drainage." — Neurosurgical consultation note