Vein of Galen Aneurysm: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Vein of Galen Aneurysm?
Treatment is usually led by an interventional neuroradiologist, with a team that often includes neurosurgeons, cardiologists, and neonatologists. Families are typically referred to a specialized medical center. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
A vein of Galen aneurysm is a rare blood vessel problem that forms before birth, in a large vein deep inside the brain. Arteries connect directly to this vein instead of passing through tiny capillaries first. When blood rushes straight into the vein, the vein swells and the heart has to work harder. Doctors call this abnormal connection an arteriovenous malformation.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on how big the malformation is and when it is found. In newborns, the most common signs are fast breathing, trouble feeding, and sometimes heart failure. In older babies and children, signs can include a rapidly growing head, a bulging soft spot, seizures, and developmental delays. Adults with a mild form may have headaches, or it may be found by accident.
Causes and who gets it
This condition is a mistake in blood vessel development early in pregnancy. It usually is not inherited, is rare (roughly 1 in 100,000 births), and is slightly more common in boys.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors may spot signs on a pregnancy ultrasound. After birth, they use ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans. Cerebral angiography, which uses dye to show blood flow, gives the most detailed picture.
Treatment
The main treatment is embolization, where a doctor inserts glue or coils through a thin tube to block the abnormal connections, usually in stages. Treating heart failure and other symptoms is also an important part of care.
When to see a doctor
Seek medical care right away if a newborn has fast breathing, trouble feeding, or seems very weak or sleepy. Call a doctor if a baby's head grows unusually fast, the soft spot bulges, or a child has seizures.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance; a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either type can help coordinate routine care, but they cannot treat the malformation itself, so they would refer the patient to a specialized center.
Common questions
Is a vein of Galen aneurysm the same as an aneurysm in the head?
No. A regular aneurysm is a weak spot that balloons out on an artery. A vein of Galen aneurysm is an abnormal connection between arteries and a deep vein. The name is a bit misleading.
Can it be found before a baby is born?
Yes. Sometimes doctors see signs of it on a routine pregnancy ultrasound. Finding it before birth lets the medical team plan for care right after delivery.
What happens if it is not treated?
Untreated cases can lead to serious heart strain, brain injury, or death, especially in newborns. Doctors usually recommend treatment because of the risk of bleeding or brain damage.
Can a child live a normal life after treatment?
Many children do well after treatment, especially when it is treated early at an experienced center. Some have lasting problems with development, movement, or learning. Outcomes vary, and long-term follow-up care is common.
Sources
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center - Vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation
- MedlinePlus - Arteriovenous Malformations
- American Heart Association Journals - American Heart Association/American Stroke Association
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
