Brain Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs)
Brain Arteriovenous Malformations, or AVMs, are abnormal tangles of blood vessels where arteries connect directly to veins without the normal capillary network. This creates a high-flow “short circuit” inside the brain. Some AVMs are silent, while others may cause headaches, seizures, weakness, numbness, vision problems, or sudden brain bleeding.
Diagnosis usually includes CT scan, MRI/MRA, and cerebral angiography, which gives the most detailed view of feeding arteries and draining veins for treatment planning.
Treatment is personalized using advanced neurovascular technology. Options include endovascular embolization, where a microcatheter delivers liquid embolic agents such as Onyx or n-BCA to block abnormal flow; stereotactic radiosurgery such as Gamma Knife for suitable smaller AVMs; and microsurgical removal when safe. Many patients need a combined approach for better precision and safety.
Early evaluation helps reduce the risk of complications and supports better treatment planning.
Treatment options may include:
Endovascular Embolization:
A minimally invasive procedure where a thin catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the AVM. Special liquid agents like Onyx or n-BCA are used to reduce or block abnormal blood flow.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery:
Focused radiation targets the AVM without opening the skull. It is often used for smaller or deep-seated AVMs.
Microsurgical Removal:
Open surgery may be recommended when the AVM can be safely removed, sometimes after embolization.
FAQs
It can be. Some AVMs remain silent, but others may bleed or cause seizures, headaches, or neurological symptoms.
CT, MRI/MRA, and cerebral angiography help confirm the AVM and plan treatment.
Yes. Some AVMs can be treated with embolization, radiosurgery, or a combination of advanced minimally invasive methods.