Structural features of cerebral arteriovenous malformations according to the data of optic microscopy and scanning electron microscopy of corrosion specimens

: The aim of this study was to investigate structure of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVM). We examined and treated 5 patients with AVMs of cerebral hemispheres. Treatment consisted of endovascular embolization with subsequent surgical resection of AVM. The series included 3 female and 2 male patients (age 19-44, mean - 28 years). Histoacryl (B. Braun, Germany) was used for embolization. Corrosion specimens were prepared according to standard technique and examined using optic and scanning electron microscopy. AVMs had similar structure. Casts were formed by distal segments of afferent arteries, fistulas, interjacent venous vessels, proximal segments of draining veins and vessels of angiomatous surrounding. The latter consisted of abnormal network of small arteries, veins, fistulas and dilated capillaries. The most variable length and formation of glomeruli was characteristic for interjacent venous vessels. AVMs extensively anastomosed with cerebral vessels. Big amount of aneurysms and aneurysmatic bulgings was present. Aneurysms of intranidal segment of afferent artery and angiomatous vessels are demonstrated.