Spontaneous arteriovenous malformations in the cervical area

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Craniofacial Surgery
• Neurology

Background:

• Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) of cervical vessels are rare but can lead to serious complications.
• Understanding the embryological origins of these malformations is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
• Iatrogenic arteriovenous fistulas are an increasing concern in vascular interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present four cases of spontaneous cervical arteriovenous malformations.
• To discuss the embryological basis for the differing incidence of AVMs involving specific cervical arteries.
• To report a probable iatrogenic arteriovenous fistula.

Main Methods:

• Case series presentation.
• Review of embryological development of cervical vasculature.
• Clinical case reporting.

Main Results:

• Four patients with spontaneous cervical arteriovenous malformations were identified.
• Embryological discussion suggests reasons for varied incidence among internal carotid, vertebral, and external carotid arteries.
• A fifth patient presented with a probable iatrogenic arteriovenous fistula.

Conclusions:

• Spontaneous cervical arteriovenous malformations require careful consideration of embryological factors.
• The incidence of AVMs may differ based on the specific cervical vessel involved.
• Iatrogenic arteriovenous fistulas represent a growing clinical entity.