Catheter embolization of pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas in an infant

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas (PAVF) are rare abnormal connections between pulmonary arteries and veins.
• PAVF can lead to significant complications, including hemorrhage and paradoxical embolism.
• Management strategies for PAVF in infants are challenging and require tailored approaches.

Observation:

• A case of a neonate diagnosed with pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas is presented.
• The infant underwent initial surgical intervention involving ligation of fistulas and limited right lung parenchyma resection.
• Residual fistulas were identified and required further management.

Findings:

• The infant underwent successful transcatheter steel coil embolization of residual pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas at 11 months of age.
• This two-stage approach, combining surgery and endovascular treatment, effectively managed the PAVF.
• No immediate complications were reported post-embolization.

Implications:

• This case highlights the efficacy of a combined surgical and interventional radiological approach for complex pediatric pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas.
• Steel coil embolization is a viable option for treating residual or complex PAVF in infants.
• Further research into long-term outcomes of such combined treatments is warranted.