Ethanol embolization of auricular arteriovenous malformations: preliminary results of 17 cases

Because of the relatively rare and extremely varied clinical presentations, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) involving the auriculae are technically challenging clinical entities to diagnose and, ultimately, manage. The purpose of our study was to present our initial experience of ethanol embolization in a series of 17 patients with auricular AVMs and assess the interim therapeutic outcomes of this method.

Our study group consisted of 17 patients. Transcatheter arterial embolization and/or direct percutaneous puncture embolization were performed. Pure or diluted ethanol was manually injected. Follow-up evaluation was obtained on the basis of physical examination and angiography at 3- to 4-month intervals and telephone questionnaire at 1-month intervals in all patients.

During the 29 ethanol embolization procedures, the amount of ethanol used ranged from 4 to 65 mL. The obliteration of ulceration, hemorrhage, pain, infection, pulsation, and bruit in most of the patients was obtained. The reduction of redness, swelling, and warmth was achieved in all of the patients, and 15 of the patients achieved downstaging of the Schobinger status. According to the angiographic findings, AVMs were devascularized 100% in 3 patients, 76% to 99% in 5 patients, 50% to 75% in 6 patients, and less than 50% in 3 patients. The most common complications were reversible necrosis and blister.

Ethanol embolization has proved efficacious and safe in the treatment of auricular AVMs and has the potential to be accepted as the primary mode of therapy in the management of these lesions.