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What is an AVM?
An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a malformation in the vascular system. There is an abnormal connection between an artery and a vein. read more
Examination and diagnosis
If you have an AVM, you will be referred to a neurosurgeon or a neurologist specialized in the vessels of the brain. An examination of the blood vessels (angiogram) is necessary to gain a good understanding of the AVM and how it communicates with the surrounding vessels. read moreExamination and diagnosis
If you have an AVM, you will be referred to a neurosurgeon or a neurologist specialized in the vessels of the brain. An examination of the blood vessels (angiogram) is necessary to gain a good understanding of the AVM and how it communicates with the surrounding vessels.
An MRI of the brain is required for the treatment of the AVM, to determine the location of the AVM and the surrounding brain tissue more accurately.
Treatment Tangle of blood vessels in the brain (AVM)
The aim of the treatment is to completely eliminate the AVM to prevent a hemorrhage or to reduce/stop symptoms. There are various treatment techniques to achieve this goal. read moreLiving with an AVM
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When an AVM is discovered, this often results in uncertainty about performing activities that can increase the pressure in the head. Examples include flying, scuba diving, roller coasters, straining, going to the sauna or having sex. There are no indications that these activities increase the risk of bleeding from an AVM. These activities can be performed as normal.
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An AVM in the brain may have a slightly increased risk of bleeding during pregnancy. If you wish to have children, it is best to discuss with your treating doctor whether this is a reason to seek treatment for the AVM.
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An AVM in the brain is not hereditary, but does occur in a number of hereditary syndromes, such as Rendu-Osler-Weber disease, the Sturge-Weber syndrome and Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome. If your doctor suspects that you have an AVM in conjunction with a hereditary syndrome, then you will be referred to a clinical geneticist for investigation of this syndrome and to advise your family about screening.
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There are legal requirements determining the suitability for driving motor vehicles, based on the “driving suitability requirements” guideline of the Dutch Healthcare Inspectorate. The CBR (Dutch equivalent of the DMV) enforces these requirements.
If you have an AVM without symptoms, that has not hemorrhaged, then there are no restrictions for the use of motor vehicles.
If the symptoms of the AVM affect your ability to drive, then your specialist will need to draft a report about this. The CBR can use this report to determine whether an additional, independent medical inspection or a driving test is necessary. Your medical specialist will write the report in addition to the health declaration from the CBR.
In the case of epilepsy caused by an AVM, you can be deemed fit to drive after being seizure-free for a certain period. The duration of the seizure-free period depends on various factors. Discuss with your specialist what applies to you.