Embolization of congenital pulmonary arteriovenous malformations

Patients with arteriovenous pulmonary malformations are at risk of developing secondary brain disease such as transient ischemic attacks, strokes or abscesses. Lethal haemothorax and haemoptysis also occur. 12 of 14 malformations in five patients were treated using a total of eight procedures. One patient experienced a transient unilateral hemiparesis, otherwise no complications occurred. None of the 43 deployed occlusion coils was lost through the fistulas. Complete occlusion was achieved in all lesions where coils could be placed in a stable position. One patient suffered a minor recurrence. The use of interlocking detachable coils (IDC) which can be retracted or repositioned prior to full deployment is recommended.