Zupa Nakayi-Semitego, a resident of Dollard-des-Ormeaux, successfully underwent complex brain surgery while 23 weeks pregnant after suffering a stroke caused by a cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM). According to Dr. Marie-Christine Brunet, a neurosurgeon at The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital), the operation required a multidisciplinary team to manage the risks associated with the rare vascular condition and the ongoing pregnancy.
The Medical Challenge of AVM During Pregnancy
The incident occurred in January 2025 when Nakayi-Semitego felt a sudden physical sensation while working out at the gym. She reported feeling a “pop” in her head, followed by severe pain, dizziness, and blurred vision. Hospital diagnostics confirmed she had suffered a stroke due to an AVM, a rare tangle of blood vessels in the brain.
Dr. Brunet notes that AVMs are uncommon, with an incidence rate of approximately one or two per 100,000 individuals. Treating such malformations during pregnancy presents a significant clinical challenge. Doctors initially provided Nakayi-Semitego with the option to postpone the surgery until after delivery, but the untreated condition carried severe risks, including the potential for coma or death.
Did you know?
A cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare tangle of blood vessels in the brain.
Multidisciplinary Surgical Coordination
Nakayi-Semitego opted for surgery during her pregnancy to mitigate the long-term risks. The procedure, which lasted 10 hours, took place while she was seven months pregnant. Success required intense coordination between surgical teams.
According to Dr. Brunet, the operation involved specialists from the Montreal Children’s Hospital who remained on standby. This contingency planning was essential in case the procedure triggered a need for a premature delivery. The surgical team’s coordination allowed Nakayi-Semitego to recover well, and she eventually gave birth to her baby girl in May 2025, carried to full term.
Future Trends in Maternal Neurosurgery
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a cerebral AVM? It is a rare, abnormal tangle of blood vessels in the brain that can cause strokes or internal bleeding.
- Can brain surgery be performed during pregnancy? Yes, though it is considered a high-risk procedure. It requires a coordinated effort between neurosurgeons and obstetricians to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.
- How common are AVMs? According to Dr. Brunet, they occur in about one or two out of every 100,000 people.
Stay Informed
Do you have questions about medical breakthroughs or want to read more stories on maternal health? Subscribe to our health newsletter for the latest updates from leading medical institutions.
Worth a look