Surgical technique for the treatment of high-flow arteriovenous malformations of the mandible

Abstract

The high-flow intraosseous arteriovenous malformation is a problematic vascular lesion which may affect bone and the dentition. Variable clinical presentations of this anomaly have resulted in a gamut of treatment modalities being reported ranging from simple curettage, resection, radiotherapy, sclerosing injections, and various forms of embolization, to immediate replantation of the resected segments. Embolization techniques alone have not been universally successful and have often resulted in rapid development of collaterals from surrounding vessels. Definitive treatment has usually involved complete surgical resection (when feasible) either alone, or in combination with other modalities such as embolization. Jaw resection, however, is deforming and leaves a defect often requiring subsequent reconstruction of the hard and soft tissues and replacement of any teeth lost with the resected segment. We report a surgical technique to treat mandibular arteriovenous malformations, which permits ligation of the feeding vessels and provides access allowing for complete removal of the intraosseous lesion. At the same time it not only prevents facial deformity by preserving the mandibular bone and oral soft tissue, but also, and more importantly, may preserve the dentition as well.