What Are the Different Types of Arteriovenous Malformation Treatment?

Arteriovenous malformation treatment options vary, depending on the severity of the condition as well as the overall health of the patient. Medications are sometimes used to treat some of the more common symptoms, including headache, seizures, and back pain. Surgical intervention is usually the preferred method of arteriovenous malformation treatment, with focused irradiation therapy being another potential treatment option. Any questions or concerns about the most appropriate arteriovenous malformation treatment in an individual situation should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.

Over-the-counter or prescription medications may be used as arteriovenous malformation treatment methods, although additional forms of treatment may also become necessary. Headaches and back pain are common symptoms and may be controlled with the use of medication. Seizures sometimes develop in those with this condition as well, even with no history of epilepsy. Anticonvulsant medications are often needed in order to control the seizure activity in these patients.

Surgical intervention is the standard method of arteriovenous malformation treatment, although the overall health of the patient is a major consideration. Conventional surgery can be quite risky, as it is necessary for the surgeon to invade the brain or spinal column in order to remove the defect. This can be quite risky for the patient and may not always be the most appropriate method of treatment. Less invasive surgical procedures may be used in some cases, depending on the severity of the condition.

Endovascular embolization is a less invasive form of arteriovenous malformation treatment than conventional surgery and carries fewer risks to the patient. This procedure involves the use of a small catheter to correct the abnormal flow of blood. An embolus, or blood clot, is formed and creates a carefully placed obstruction that helps blood flow return to normal. This is not usually considered a permanent type of procedure and is generally used in conjunction with other treatment options to make surgery or irradiation therapy safer for the patient.

Focused irradiation therapy, or radiosurgery, uses carefully focused radiation to destroy the malformation. It could take between one and three years for the affected blood vessels to close as a result of this procedure, so it is used only in cases of small defects that do not carry a significant risk of hemorrhage. This is a painless procedure and does not require the use of any type of anesthesia or surgical incision. Periodic medical monitoring may be necessary until proper blood flow has returned to the affected area.