Pulmonary AVM Embolization

Embolization of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations to prevent complications (paradoxical stroke, hemorrhage, hypoxemia).

Vascular Malformation Treatments

Pulmonary AVM Embolization

Synonyms : PAVM treatment, pulmonary arteriovenous fistula embolization

Background

Pulmonary AVMs (often in Rendu-Osler-Weber disease) create right-to-left shunts causing paradoxical embolism risk and hypoxemia.

Procedure

Catheter via femoral vein to pulmonary arteries feeding the AVM. Coils or plugs deployed. Duration: 1-2 hours.

Risks

Paradoxical embolism, chest pain, long-term recurrence.

Recovery

One-night stay. Follow-up CT at 6-12 months then every 3-5 years.

Practical information

Local anesthesia. Outpatient procedure (return home the same day).