Normally arteries and veins are separated by capillaries. A cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) occurs when there are no capillaries and the arteries directly connect to veins in the brain. AVMs may rupture/bleed or place pressure on parts of the brain. They vary in size and may occur in various areas of the brain.
Symptoms
Bleeding/ruptured AVM: stroke like symptoms
- Confusion
- Ear noise/buzzing
- Difficulty walking
- Migraine like headache
- Seizures
Pressure causing AVM
- Vision problems
- Dizziness
- Face or body muscle weakness
- Numbness
Treatment
Treatment will depend on whether the AVM has ruptured or is causing pressure. A bleeding AVM is a medical emergency and will require surgical treatment. Your surgeon will discuss the best option for your individual situation.
- Open surgery (craniotomy) to remove AVM
- Endovascular Embolization
- Steriotactic Radiosurgery
Referenced: National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke, American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Barrow Neurological Institute, National Institute of Health
