Penn Medicine is home to one of the country’s few dedicated centers for patients with cavernous malformations. Penn is one of only 12 institutions in the nation and the only hospital in our region to be designated as a Center of Excellence for Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM) by the Alliance to Cure Cavernous Malformation. A cavernous malformation is an abnormal collection or tangle of thin-walled blood vessels within normal brain tissue or within the spinal cord. Cavernous malformations are also known as cavernous hemangiomas, cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) or cavernomas. We’re proud to offer:
- Comprehensive care for the full range of cerebral and spinal cavernous malformations
- Consultation with different specialists (neurosurgery, neurology, genetics or others) depending on your needs
- Innovative tests and tailored surgical treatments
- Skilled surgeons who perform a high volume of cavernoma surgeries each year
- Research and future clinical trials for cavernomas
To make an appointment at the Cavernous Malformation Center, please call 215-662-3487.
A World Leader in Cavernous Malformations
Although cavernous malformations in the brain or spine are benign vascular malformations, they are diverse and can lead to various problems. Some cavernomas take up space and can cause neurological deficits such as weakness or numbness depending on the location or can cause seizure by irritating the brain. Others may present with a brain hemorrhage or may be found incidental without any symptoms.
That’s why no two patients have the exact same journey. Each person with a cavernous malformation needs the right tests, an individual assessment and a custom treatment plan, as well as regular check-ups. In other words: your care at Penn’s Cavernous Malformation Center will be centered on and specific to you.
The Latest Diagnostic Technology and Genetic Testing for Cav Mals
To diagnose cavernomas, we use specialized technologies not available at every hospital. Penn’s Cavernous Malformation Center offers high-resolution MRI including cavernoma-specific MR sequences that spots small or multiple cavernomas. We also offer genetic testing at Penn for patients to rule out or confirm familiar cavernous malformations.
Skilled and Experienced Surgeons
Surgery for vascular malformations including microsurgical resection of cavernomas are different than other types of brain surgery, and the best results come from surgeons who treat a high volume of vascular malformations including eloquent locations such as the brainstem. The surgeons at Penn’s Cavernous Malformation Center are among the busiest vascular surgeons in the country – and are highly focused on vascular malformations. That’s why our outcomes are among the best in the nation. In fact, patients typically go home the next day and feel well enough to resume normal activity within days.
Your Own Team of Cavernous Malformation Experts
At Penn, you’ll meet a group of highly-skilled cavernoma specialists. Initial visits are streamlined, allowing you to see the specialist you need at your very first visit – saving you time and energy. Our doctors work with many patients with vascular malformations and they know when to watch and wait, when to intervene, and which treatments will give you the best long-term results.
Your treatment team will include other specialists who will meet regularly to discuss your case:
Throughout your time working with the Cavernous Malformation Center, our doctors will work closely with your local primary care provider to make sure you’re receiving the best care close to home.
Neurosurgery Second Opinion Program
Our experienced team of neurosurgeons offers second opinions to any patient who has received a neurosurgical diagnosis.
Learn more about the Penn Neurosurgery Second Opinion Program