Arteriovenous malformations
Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), are intracranial blood vessel anomalies, characterized by the anomalous growth of arteries and veins. Since these are anomalous vessels, they are fragile and may be prone to rupture or be associated with altered blood circulation in the surrounding brain.
They can be present in the brain and spinal cord. Although unusual, arteriovenous malformations may be a cause of headaches and convulsive crisis.
In order to properly diagnose an AVM, the neurosurgeon may recur to the following:
- Cerebral angiography, through a catheter passed through the arteries a special contrast is injected, defining cerebral vessels and malformation vessels.
- CT scan, usually the first study solicited, it provides a fair image of the brain and spinal cord.
- Magnetic resonance imaging with angio resonance. It provides a clear image of the brain as well of the AVM and surrounding brain.
Treatment depends on the characteristics of the lesion; it may include, surgery, embolization, radiotherapy or a combination of the afore mentioned.
Vascular Surgery
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- Address Hospital CIMA: Office 1215, Torre 1, San José, Costa Rica.
- Phone +506 2208 1215
- WhatsApp +506 8372-4344
- Email info@drandresmorales.com