Surgical treatment of intracranial vascular malformations

Arteriovenous malformations often pursue a progressive course, increasing in morbidity and mortality. Whenever possible they should be excised totally. The operating microscope, bipolar coagulation and high quality angiography have extended the generally accepted indications for surgical operation. Intraoperative adjuncts of contrast angiography and cardiac green have been helpful in accurately defining deep or complex lesions.