[Arteriovenous malformations]

Arteriovenous malformations (AVM) are the most dangerous of vascular malformations, being haemodynamically active. These malformations proceed in two phases: a phase of quiescence which may last throughout life, and an unpredictable phase of activity sometimes triggered by a trauma or by hormonal variations (puberty, pregnancy, oral contraceptives). Treatment must be careful usually limited, and considered in the phase of activity. A multidisciplinary consensus is necessary.