Conditions
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM)
Quick answer
An arteriovenous malformation is a tangle of abnormal blood vessels where arteries connect directly to veins, often in the brain. It may bleed, cause seizures or headaches. Treatment options include microsurgical removal, embolisation through a catheter, and focused radiation such as Gamma Knife. Some are safely watched.
Medically reviewed by The Curaventa Team · Last updated 2026-10-24
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Normally, arteries feed blood into tiny capillaries before it drains into veins. In an AVM, this capillary bed is missing. High-pressure blood rushes straight into thin veins, which can rupture.
AVMs are usually present from birth but may only be found in adulthood. Brain and spinal AVMs are the most serious. Treatment depends on size, location and whether it has bled.
Symptoms
- Sudden severe headache from bleeding
- Seizures
- Weakness or numbness on one side
- Problems with vision or speech
- A whooshing sound in the head
- No symptoms in some people
Causes and risk factors
- Abnormal blood vessel development before birth
- Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT)
- Pregnancy may increase bleeding risk
- Previous bleed from the AVM
How it is diagnosed
- CT scan in an emergency
- MRI and MR angiography
- Cerebral (catheter) angiography
- EEG if seizures occur
Stages
- Spetzler-Martin Grade I-II: small, superficial; usually lower surgical risk
- Grade III: intermediate; treatment individualised
- Grade IV-V: large or in critical brain areas; often higher surgical risk
When a procedure is needed
Treatment is usually considered when an AVM has bled or causes seizures that medicines do not control. Unruptured AVMs need careful weighing of treatment risk against bleeding risk. A neurovascular team decides using a grading system and the AVM's location.
Treatment options in India
| Treatment | When it is used | Published price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| AVM Treatment | for removal or embolisation of AVMs that are accessible and suitable for surgery or catheter work | On request |
| Gamma Knife Radiosurgery | for small or deep AVMs where open surgery would be risky | On request |
Frequently asked questions
Does Gamma Knife remove an AVM immediately?
No. Radiation causes the vessels to close slowly, usually over a period of years. During that time, the AVM may still bleed. Follow-up scans track progress.
What is embolisation?
A catheter is passed to the AVM through blood vessels. Glue-like material is injected to block feeding vessels. It may be used alone or before surgery or radiosurgery.
Should an unruptured AVM always be treated?
Not always. Some studies suggest careful observation can be reasonable for certain unruptured AVMs. Your team weighs your age, AVM features and personal preferences.
Can I have a normal pregnancy with an AVM?
Pregnancy can change blood flow and may raise bleeding risk. Discuss plans with a neurosurgeon and obstetrician before conceiving if possible.
Medically reviewed by The Curaventa Team. Last updated 2026-10-24. General information, not medical advice. Medical editorial board · Editorial policy · How we get prices
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