Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation AVM

A cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins in the brain. These blood vessels form an irregular network that allows blood to flow directly from arteries into veins, bypassing the smaller vessels that normally connect them.

Most cerebral AVMs are believed to develop before birth. Some never cause symptoms, while others may lead to headaches, seizures, or bleeding in the brain.

At Washington Health's Bell Neuroscience Institute of Silicon Valley, our specialists evaluate cerebral AVMs and develop individualized treatment plans based on each patient's condition and risk factors.

Symptoms of a Cerebral AVM

Some people with cerebral AVMs experience no symptoms, and the condition may be discovered during imaging tests for another medical concern.

When symptoms occur, they may include:

Headaches
Seizures
Muscle weakness or numbness
Vision changes
Difficulty speaking or maintaining balance

An AVM can sometimes rupture, causing bleeding in the brain. Sudden, severe headaches, weakness, confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness may indicate a medical emergency.

Call 911 immediately if you experience sudden neurological symptoms or signs of bleeding in the brain.

How Are Cerebral AVMs Diagnosed?

Your physician may recommend imaging tests to identify the abnormal blood vessels and evaluate blood flow.

These tests may include:

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
CT angiography (CTA)
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)
Cerebral angiography

The results help your specialist determine the AVM's size, location, and potential risk of bleeding.

Treatment Options for Cerebral AVMs

Every cerebral AVM is different, and treatment depends on its size, location, type, and risk of bleeding. Your neurosurgeon will carefully evaluate your condition to determine the most appropriate approach.

The main goal of treatment is to prevent bleeding and reduce the risk of complications. In some cases, treatment may also help control seizures.

Treatment options may include:

Microsurgical Removal

During this procedure, a neurosurgeon makes an opening in the skull to carefully remove the abnormal blood vessels. The goal is to remove the AVM and reduce the risk of future bleeding.

Endovascular Embolization

This minimally invasive procedure uses a thin, flexible tube called a catheter to reach the AVM through a blood vessel. Special materials are used to block blood flow to the abnormal vessels.

Targeted Radiation Therapy

This treatment uses precisely focused radiation to gradually close the abnormal blood vessels, reducing the risk of future bleeding over time.

Choosing the Right Treatment for You

Your neurosurgeon will consider your AVM's size, location, type, and risk of bleeding when recommending treatment. At Washington Health, our goal is to help you understand your options and develop a care plan that meets your individual needs.

Care Rooted in Your Community

Built on 75 years of service and commitment

We Listen, Then Act
We assess community needs, then build new services to fill those gaps.
Putting Words Into Action
We serve alongside neighbors through local boards, organizations, and civic groups.
Care from Your Neighbors
Our staff is made up of your neighbors, reflecting the community we all serve.

Get the Care You Need

From primary care to specialized treatment, we're here for you.