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AVM of the Brain
AVM is a congenital (you are born with) malformation of the ateries and veins which consists of a tangle of weak thin walled vessels. These vessels may burst causing a bleed into the substance of the brain. The bleeding may be life threatening or disabling. AVM may also cause headache or seizure. The AVM is best treated before it causes a bleed.
Diagnosis
CT scan or MRI of the brain and anteriogram of the vessels of the brain are used in diagnosing AVM.
Treatment
"No treatment" is sometimes the safest option for AVM patients. Surgical removal of the AVM is often the best treatment. AVM may also be treated by embolization of some vessels which may facilitate surgical treatment but is seldom enough to cure the AVM. Another treatment option is radiosurgery - a form of focused radiation which can result in slow shut down of the AVM without surgery. This is sometimes the best treatment.
©2003 Heffez Neurosurgical Associates, S.C.