Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 20, 2025

Comprehensive Endovascular and Open Surgical Management of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations
Published on: October 20, 2017
Endovascular management of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations presenting as multiple brain abscesses
Surya Nandan Prasad1, Srishti Sharma2, Vivek Singh3
1Radiodiagnosis, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, India.
Abstract:
Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are rare vascular lesions characterised by abnormal connections between the pulmonary artery and vein bypassing the pulmonary capillary bed and causing right-to-left shunt. Paradoxical embolism is known to occur in these cases, leading to inoculation of septic focus in the systemic circulation. We report a case of multiple PAVMs who presented clinically with seizures and altered sensorium. On radiological work-up, multiple brain abscesses and large PAVMs were evident. The patient was successfully treated by endovascular embolisation of the PAVMs using a vascular plug and multiple coils. The patient showed complete clinical recovery and resolution of brain abscesses on follow-up.
Insights
Multiple pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) can lead to paradoxical embolism and brain abscesses. Endovascular embolization successfully treated a patient with PAVMs, resolving seizures and brain abscesses.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are abnormal vascular connections bypassing pulmonary capillaries, causing right-to-left shunts.
- These shunts can lead to paradoxical embolism, seeding septic foci into systemic circulation.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care

