malformation arteriovenous

    
      Re: malformation arteriovenous
    


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Posted by CCF MD mdf on March 20, 1998 at 11:12:00:

In Reply to: malformation arteriovenous posted by Nadia Leroux on March 19, 1998 at 22:11:24:

: Since I am born I have an  spinal arteriovenous marformation with a tumor.
  I want to know if it has some treatment, because my doctor said that
  its too big to do embolization or to oparate.
  I want to have a second answer.
  Thanks you
  Nadia Leroux
=
Arteriovenous malformations (AVM) may occur anywhere in the body. Basically, arteries and veins are connected directly without going through intervening capillaries. The tangle of blood vessels is less effective in providing nutrition to the cells in the affected area. But the major problem comes from the mass effect. The bundle of vessels takes up space. Depending on where it is, this may or may not pose a problem.
Spinal AVMs can cause problems with function of the lower parts of your body, such as walking or possibly also bladder control.
Treatment is complex. Some centers are more experienced in treatment of AVMs, and as you are aware the options include embolization (plugging up the vessels from the inside) and ligation (tying off) surgically.
For a second opinion, you should consult doctors at a medical center with experience treating AVMs. This involves a combination of neurosurgeons and interventional radiologists as well as neurologists. There is such a team approach at the Cleveland Clinic. You are welcome to call 800 223-2273, ask for neurology appointments.
I hope this helps. The information provided is for general medical education purposes. Specific advice must come from your doctor. CCF MD mdf.