Phone: 817-697-4038 Fax: 877-409-3962

Arteriovenous Malformation

If you are suffering from arteriovenous malformation, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is An Arteriovenous Malformation?

An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is an abnormal tangle of blood vessels where arteries connect directly to veins, bypassing the normal capillary system. This rare condition disrupts the normal flow of blood, leading to potential complications. Although AVMs can occur anywhere in the body, they most commonly develop in the brain or spinal cord.

What Causes an AVM?

The exact cause of an AVM is not always known, but it is generally believed to be present from birth, making it a congenital condition. In some cases, AVMs may result from a genetic mutation, but they often develop spontaneously without any clear cause. Over time, these abnormal blood vessel connections can increase in size, leading to pressure on surrounding tissues and a risk of rupture, especially in the brain.

Symptoms of Arteriovenous Malformation

The symptoms of an AVM depend largely on its size, location, and whether it has ruptured. Many AVMs do not present noticeable symptoms unless they grow large or cause bleeding. However, when symptoms do occur, they can vary and may include:

  • Headaches: Persistent or sudden, severe headaches are common, especially with brain AVMs.
  • Seizures: Unexplained seizures can occur when the abnormal blood vessels affect the brain.
  • Neurological problems: Weakness or numbness in a limb, difficulty speaking, vision problems, or coordination difficulties.
  • Pain: Depending on the location, pain may occur in the back, limbs, or head.
  • Swelling or tenderness: For AVMs that are close to the skin or in certain areas of the body, swelling and tenderness may be visible or felt.

In cases where an AVM ruptures, it can lead to significant bleeding, stroke, or other life-threatening conditions. Immediate medical attention is necessary if these symptoms appear suddenly.

Diagnosis and Treatment of AVM

An AVM is often diagnosed using imaging tests such as MRI, CT scans, or angiography. These methods allow doctors to locate the AVM and assess its size and impact on surrounding tissues.

Treatment for AVMs depends on their size, location, and whether they have ruptured. Options include:

  • Surgical removal: If the AVM is accessible and not deeply embedded, surgery may be performed to remove it.
  • Endovascular embolization: A minimally invasive procedure where a catheter is used to inject a substance into the abnormal blood vessels to block them.
  • Radiosurgery: A non-invasive method using focused radiation to shrink the AVM over time.

Orthopedic Considerations

Although an AVM affects the vascular system, the resulting neurological and physical impairments can have orthopedic implications. Patients may experience weakness, paralysis, or coordination issues, which may require physical therapy or orthopedic rehabilitation to regain mobility and function.

At our clinic, we offer comprehensive care for patients with AVMs, working closely with specialists to address both the neurological and orthopedic challenges posed by this condition.

 

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.