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NEUROVASCULAR TREATMENTS
Embolization of Cerebral AVM’s and Fistulas
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Arterial venous malformations are congenital lesions which consist of many abnormal arterial connections to the venous outflow. In an AVM, the normal intervening capillary bed which would otherwise be present is replaced by a tangled mass of abnormal vessels since he normal transition of pressurized oxygenated blood toward the veins does not occur, the veins, therefore carry a pressurized and oxygenated blood away from the center, or nidus, of the AVM. AVM’s will often present with seizures or intracranial hemorrhage. Hemorrhage from an AVM may be life threatening.
In contra distinction to an AVM, fistula is a direct connection between an artery and a vein. These can be ALSO very dangerous, in a similar fashion to arterial venous malformations. Here, the vein carries an even higher pressurized flow of blood than does an AVM. Symptoms can result from a variety of means, such as pressure against normal brain tissue, or bleeding into or around the brain.
Embolization involves plugging up access to the malformation. This technique does not require surgical opening of the skull to expose the brain, and can be used to treat deep AVMs. Using real-time x-ray images as a guide, the interventional radiologist inserts a catheter, through arteries and guides it up through the blood vessels to the site of the AVM. When in the exact position, the radiologist can inject a liquid embolic agent similar to glue that clogs up the malformation and restore normal circulation.
The patient may remain awake during the procedure or be placed under anesthetics to prevent discomfort.
Key Advantages:
- Minimally invasive
- Shorter recovery time
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