Modern Brain Arteriovenous Malformation Models: A Review.

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Vascular Biology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are abnormal connections between arteries and veins, bypassing capillary circulation.
• Early research by Hunter, Virchow, and Luschka laid the foundation for understanding AVMs, particularly cerebral AVMs.
• Traditional AVM models often relied on animal studies or anatomical analysis before recent technological shifts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution and current state of arteriovenous malformation (AVM) models in scientific literature.
• To analyze the impact of recent technological innovations on the development of novel AVM modeling techniques.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted using keywords 'brain,' 'arteriovenous malformation,' and 'model.'
• 489 articles were identified, and after screening, 41 were selected for detailed review.
• The review focused on advancements in vascular modeling over the last decade.

Main Results:

• Technological innovations, including 3D flow models and 4D flow MRI, have significantly advanced AVM modeling.
• Developments in preservation solutions, catheterization, and imaging have enabled new models like the cerebrovascular placental model.
• These novel models facilitate testing of various AVM treatments, including radiosurgery and embolization.

Conclusions:

• The field of AVM modeling has undergone a technological revolution in the past decade.
• Current models offer sophisticated platforms for evaluating AVM treatments and understanding disease pathology.
• This review synthesizes the breadth of AVM models reported over the last five decades.