Radiologic analysis of bone structure in congenital angiodysplasia

47 patients with congenital arteriovenous malformations (AVM) were examined by routine radiography. Magnification films were performed in 20 cases. The results demonstrate that different types of AVM can be successfully differentiated by non-invasive radiologic techniques. The F.P. Weber type AVM is characterized by destruction of the regular trabecular bone architecture in the areas of the AV-shunts. These alterations can be best demonstrated by the magnification technique. Destruction of trabecular and cortical bone occasionally with additional destruction of a joint are the typical signs of the Servelle-Martorell type AVM. These changes can usually be seen on routine radiographs, and in a great number of cases they are more obvious than in the F. P. Weber type AVM. In the Klippel-Trénaunay type AVM a lengthening of the involved limb is characteristic; no alterations in bone structure can be demonstrated.