Arteriovenous Malformation of Face: A Challenge to Anesthesiologists

Arteriovenous (AV) malformations of the face are rare presentations. Endovascular coiling is one of the treatment modalities. We report a case of a 65-year-old lady who presented with a large AV malformation of the face located around the nasal bride and alae nasae posted for coiling under general anesthesia. Anesthetic management of the case was a challenge as it was an anticipated difficult airway situation. Furthermore, any pressure on the swelling can lead to rupture and hemorrhage as the skin above swelling was unhealthy. There was difficulty in mask ventilation both with larger- and smaller-sized facial masks including Rendell-Baker-Soucek mask. Supraglottic airway device had to be inserted as a rescue measure. After getting effective ventilation, muscle relaxants were supplemented, and trachea was intubated. While intubating the axis of the laryngoscope had to be maintained on the right side to avoid pressure on the swelling as it could traumatize the malformation. The procedure went on uneventful. The patient was extubated fully awake.