The use of dual-lumen balloon for embolization of peripheral arteriovenous malformations

We aimed to evaluate the safety and feasibility of the embolization of peripheral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) with non-adhesive liquid agents (NALA) injected by dual-lumen balloons (DLB).

We conducted a multicenter retrospective study between January 2017 and June 2019, including patients with peripheral AVM embolized with NALA by DLB. Fourteen patients were included. The AVM classification, technical and clinical success were evaluated, as were nidus size, liquid agent used, volume and time of injection in DLB, complications, follow-up and need of surgical intervention.

The mean age of the patients was 37±22.5 years (range, 6-82 years). The mean nidus size was 5.2±2.4 cm (range, 3.0-12.0 cm). By Schobinger classification, 11 AVMs were classified in stage 3 and 3 AVMs were classified in stage 2. By Cho's classification, 2 AVMs were in stage II, 4 AVMs were in stage I, 4 AVMs were in stage IIIa and 4 AVMs were in stage IIIb. Onyx was used in 11 patients (78.6%), while Squid, PHIL, and both Onyx and Squid were used in one patient each (7.1%). Seven patients (50%) required one session of embolization, 4 patients (28.6%) required two, 2 patients (14.3%) required three and 1 patient (7.1%) required four sessions. Complete nidus exclusion was achieved in 11 patients (78.6%), optimal clinical response in 12 patients (85.7%). Four patients (28.6%) exhibited minor complications, all controlled. No major complications were seen. Four patients underwent surgical intervention (28.6%).

The embolization of peripheral AVM with NALA in DLB appears to be safe and feasible, achieving high rates of technical and clinical success.