Spetzler-Martin scale

The Spetzler-Martin scale (based on Robert F. Spetzler (* 1944)) is a classification used to describe arteriovenous malformations (AVM) in the brain. The number of points correlates with the frequency of postoperative neurological complications. The result should therefore be used to answer the question of a surgical recommendation.

Points are awarded according to the following criteria:

AVM size	AVM localization	Venous drainage
small (<3 cm): 1 point medium (3–6 cm): 2 points large (> 6 cm): 3 points	non-eloquent brain region: 0 points eloquent brain region: 1 point	only superficial: 0 points Internal cerebral vein involvement: 1 point

The authors considered AVM in the following locations to be almost inoperable:

• Sensorimotor , speech or visual cortex
• Thalamus or hypothalamus
• Internal capsule
• Brain stem
• Cerebellar stalks or nuclei

literature

• RF Spetzler, NA. Martin: A proposed grading system for arteriovenous malformations. In: J Neurosurg , 1986, 65 (4), pp. 476-483, PMID 3760956 .

This article is about a health issue. It is not used for self-diagnosis and does not replace a diagnosis by a doctor. Please note the information on health issues !