Combined treatment of arteriovenous malformations by transarterial microembolization and surgery

An arteriovenous malformation is defined as a congenital lesion of dysplastic vascular origin with large feeding arteries causing decreased vascular resistance. Previously, initial attempts toward treatment by complete excision of the vascular mass were complicated by hemorrhage and infection. Cardiac failure and abnormal growth may result from the shunted blood flow. With the advancement of angiography, more defined study of the arteriovenous anomaly can be identified and a reduction of risk during treatment can be promised. Three cases of extensive arteriovenous malformations are presented. Each has been successfully treated by combining radiologic microembolization followed by surgical extirpation of the vascular mass, without complication.