[A case of pulmonary arteriovenous malformation treated by transcatheter embolization using coils]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs) are abnormal connections between pulmonary arteries and veins.
• PAVMs can lead to severe complications like hypoxia and hemoptysis.
• Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing PAVMs.

Observation:

• A 21-year-old woman initially diagnosed with PAVMs at age 16 was monitored due to a low shunt fraction.
• At age 21, she experienced dyspnea, and imaging revealed increased PAVM size and shunt fraction.
• 3-D imaging precisely located the PAVM relative to pulmonary vasculature.

Findings:

• Coil embolization was successfully performed to occlude the feeding artery of the PAVM.
• Post-embolization, the PAVM diameter decreased, and the shunt fraction improved.
• The patient experienced no significant postoperative complications and symptom relief.

Implications:

• Coil embolization is a safe, effective, and less invasive treatment option for PAVMs compared to surgery.
• This case highlights the importance of monitoring PAVMs and considering embolization for symptomatic or enlarging lesions.
• Minimally invasive endovascular techniques offer promising therapeutic strategies for vascular malformations.