MRI Abdominal Wall Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM)

An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in the abdominal wall is a rare condition. It involves an abnormal connection between arteries and veins in the abdominal wall, bypassing the capillary system. This can lead to a variety of complications and symptoms.

Causes:

The exact cause of an AVM is not always clear. They may be:

• Congenital: Present at birth, possibly due to improper development of blood vessels during embryonic or fetal life.
• Acquired: Resulting from trauma, surgery, or other conditions that may lead to the development of abnormal connections between arteries and veins.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of an abdominal wall AVM can vary greatly depending on the size and location of the malformation. They might include:

• Visible Abnormalities: A noticeable lump or a network of visible veins on the abdominal wall.
• Pain or Discomfort: This can range from mild to severe, especially if the AVM is large.
• Bleeding: If the AVM is near the surface, there might be a risk of bleeding, either spontaneously or due to injury.

Treatment:

Treatment of abdominal wall AVMs depends on the symptoms, size, and location of the malformation. Options include:

• Observation: Small, asymptomatic AVMs may just be monitored for changes.
• Embolization: A minimally invasive procedure where materials are injected into the blood vessels to block the abnormal blood flow. This is often the first line of treatment.
• Surgery: In some cases, especially for large or symptomatic AVMs, surgical removal may be necessary.
• Laser Therapy: For AVMs that are close to the skin surface, laser therapy might be an option.