Forsyth Medical Center 
Stroke and Neurovascular Tests and Treatments
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) Diagnostic Tests & Treatments
| Forsyth Medical Center has innovative techniques and therapies available for the treatment of arteriovenous malformations. |
Tests
Forsyth Medical Center's precise imaging capabilities help promote better outcomes and improved surgical planning for patients with AVMs. Our fully integrated neuroimaging facility, which includes highly accurate and detailed cerebral angiography capabilities, offers physicians the technology needed to obtain vital information on AVMs.
Computed tomography (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will usually confirm the presence of the lesion and show its exact location. Angiography may then be performed to give a more detailed picture of the structural characteristics of the AVM. Extremely helpful in determining an AVM's size and location, an angiogram is essential to planning any subsequent treatment for the AVM and risk assessment.
There are three tests used to diagnose AVMs:
CT scan (Computerized tomography)
A special x-ray machine is used to take pictures of the brain.
MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging)
Powerful magnets and radio waves are used to construct pictures of the AVM vessels.
Angiography
A thin tube is inserted into an artery in the groin and threaded up toward the brain. Dye is then injected into the brain's blood vessels and images are taken.
Treatments
There are three known treatments for AVMs: surgical removal, embolization and radiation treatment. Surgical removal is currently the preferred treatment because it essentially guarantees cure. Some AVMs, however, are too deep in the brain or too close to a critical region of the brain to be operated upon. In all AVM treatments, the AVM must be completely removed. If any portion remains after treatment, the AVM will eventually grow back.
AVM treatment involves one or a combination of the following treatments:
Microsurgery
Traditional surgical techniques are used under high magnification to remove the AVM.
Endovascular embolization
A "super glue" substance introduced via a tiny catheter helps to reduce the AVM's size.
Stereotactic radiosurgery
A highly focused beam of radiation is delivered to the AVM.
