Background:

Vascular anomalies are lesions that can be classified as haemangiomas or vascular malformations according to their histological presentation. Vascular malformations are further sub-divided by their constituent vessel or by flow characteristics (low-flow or high-flow). Arteriovenous malformations (AVM) are the most common high-flow vascular malformation.

The diagnosis and management of AVM’s in the maxillofacial region is complex and a multidisciplinary approach is required with detailed planning.

Objectives:

The aim of this presentation is to review the current approach to diagnosis and management of maxillofacial AVM’s and review recent cases managed by the Royal Adelaide Hospital Oral and Maxillofacial Unit.

Methods:

A retrospective clinical audit was conducted on patients assessed through the Royal Adelaide Hospital by the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery unit between 2009 and 2013.

Relevant studies were identified using PubMed, Ovid Medline and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms used included arteriovenous malformations, maxillofacial abnormalities and vascular malformations.

Findings:

From the literature review, management of AVM’s can divided into two modalities, namely embolization and surgery. Majority of AVM’s are managed with embolization with subsequent surgical resection utilised in suitable cases. Complication of AVM management will be discussed.

A case series of patients will be presented as part of this study. Patient demographics, clinical and radiographic assessment, management and clinical outcomes will be discussed.

Conclusion:

The diagnosis and management of maxillofacial AVM’s is complex. Multidisciplinary approach is needed for successful management and to ensure satisfactory treatment outcomes. However, management strategy needs to be tailored to individual patients.