Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are abnormal connections between arteries and veins that may cause pain, swelling, skin discoloration, bleeding, or warmth over the lesion. Led by Dr. Waner and Dr. O, the Vascular Birthmark Institute offers expert diagnosis and personalized care to improve the quality of life for patients with AVMs.
What Are Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMS)?
Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are congenital vascular lesions made up of tangled blood vessels that connect arteries directly to veins, bypassing the capillary system. This abnormal circulation can lead to increased blood flow and pressure, causing the lesion to grow steadily over time. AVMs can be focal or widespread, often appearing with a pinkish hue on the skin’s surface. Though present at birth, they may not become noticeable until later in life. If left untreated, they can cause pain, bleeding, or functional and aesthetic complications.
Signs & Symptoms of
Arteriovenous Malformations:
- Pain or throbbing in the affected area
- Swelling or a noticeable mass under the skin
- Pinkish or reddish discoloration of the overlying skin
- Warmth over the lesion
- Bleeding or ulceration in severe cases
- Enlarged surrounding blood vessels
- Audible bruit (whooshing sound) over the lesion in some cases
Treatments for Arteriovenous Malformations
At the Vascular Birthmark Institute, we understand that every arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is unique. Your treatment begins with a thorough diagnostic evaluation, often including clinical examination, ultrasound, and angiography to map the AVM and understand its blood flow.
Led by Dr. Waner and Dr. O, our team develops a personalized treatment plan based on the size, location, and severity of your lesion. Most AVMs require a combination of therapies to manage symptoms, reduce complications, and improve cosmetic and functional outcomes.
Embolization
Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure during which we guide a thin catheter through an artery to reach the AVM. Once in place, we inject special materials—such as tiny particles, glue, or foam—into the malformation to block the abnormal blood vessels. This reduces or eliminates the abnormal blood flow (called “shunting”) between arteries and veins. In many cases, embolization helps shrink the lesion or make it safer and easier to remove surgically.
Surgical Resection
Once embolization has minimized blood flow, surgery may be performed to remove the remaining AVM tissue. This helps prevent recurrence and reduces the risk of bleeding or tissue damage. During surgery, our team excises the affected vessels while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. In some cases, surgery may be the sole treatment, but it’s most effective when combined with embolization to minimize intraoperative bleeding and improve outcomes.
Laser Therapy
If the AVM causes pink or red discoloration on the skin’s surface, a pulsed dye laser (PDL) may be used to target and lighten these areas. While laser treatment cannot treat the AVM itself, it can improve the appearance of the overlying skin. This is typically reserved for superficial cases or used as a complement to embolization and surgery for cosmetic enhancement.
Ongoing Monitoring
Even after treatment, some AVMs can recur or require long-term monitoring. Our team will schedule follow-ups to track your recovery and detect any changes early. In some cases, additional embolization or surgical procedures may be needed. At the Vascular Birthmark Institute, we provide comprehensive, lifelong care to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Schedule Your Consultation
Vascular Birthmark Institute is a world-renowned center specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of complex vascular anomalies, including arteriovenous malformations. Led by Dr. Waner and Dr. O, our team provides expert, individualized care using the latest techniques in embolization, surgery, and laser therapy. If you or your child has been diagnosed with an AVM, schedule a consultation today to begin your path toward expert care and lasting relief.
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