Resection of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation

What Happens During a Resection of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation Procedure?

A variety of factors such as the history of previous ruptures, the location of the AVM, the size and the presence of an aneurysm are reviewed to determine if a patient is a good candidate for a microsurgical resection of a cerebral arteriovenous malformation.

During the surgery, the patient is anesthetized and the head secured.

• A portion of the scalp is shaved.
• The surgeon performs a craniotomy (surgically opens the skull). After the skull is opened up, the dura (membrane covering the brain) is incised.
• The AVM is isolated from the neighboring brain tissue.
• The vessels providing blood to the AVM are clamped off.
• With microsurgical instruments, the AVM is resected (removed) from the tissue.
• Temporary drains may be installed to stop fluid build-up in the skull.
• The skull flap is put back in place and affixed with plates and small metal screws.
• Skin is put back and secured with sutures or surgical staples.

Recovery generally begins with one day in the intensive care unit and another four to six days in the hospital.