Management of an arteriovenous malformation

Arteriovenous malformations represent a unique challenge to the facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Unlike other vascular anomalies, such as hemangiomas or capillary vascular malformations (or port-wine stains), true arteriovenous malformations are rare aberrations in vascular morphogenesis. Their rarity and high propensity toward bleeding and recurrence combined with the potential for life-threatening rupture may make the occasional surgeon who dares to resect these lesions rightfully less than intrepid in his endeavor.