We would like to thank Nikki Jahnke, Managing Editor of the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group for her support. We would also like to thank Dr Claire Shovlin for providing an in-depth peer review.

While no randomised controlled trials of this treatment are included in this review, a number of observational studies have suggested embolisation therapy has benefits. However, randomised controlled trials are not always feasible on ethical grounds. In the absence of randomised controlled trials, a standardised approach to reporting, as well as long-term follow-up through registry studies can help to improve the safety and outcome of embolisation for pulmonary arteriovenous malformations. Quality of the evidence We have not been able to present any evidence from randomised controlled trials in this version of the review.

Venous cutdown versus the Seldinger technique for placement of totally implantable venous access ports.

Venous cutdown versus the Seldinger technique for placement of totally implantable venous access ports.

No abstract

No abstract

Distal aortic perfusion during thoracoabdominal aneurysm repair for prevention of paraplegia.

Background Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations are abnormal direct connections between the pulmonary artery and pulmonary vein which result in a right-to-left shunt. They are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality mainly from the effects of paradoxical emboli. Potential complications include stroke, cerebral abscess, pulmonary haemorrhage and hypoxaemia. Embolisation therapy is a form of treatment based on the occlusion of the feeding arteries to a pulmonary arteriovenous malformation and can prevent many of these debilitating and life-threatening complications. Objectives To determine the efficacy and safety of embolisation therapy in people with pulmonary arteriovenous malformations including a comparison with surgical resection and different embolisation devices. Search methods We searched the Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group's Trials Registers (last searched 07 September 2009). We also searched the following databases: the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry; ClinicalTrials.gov; International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Register; International Clinical Trials Registry Platform Search Portal (last searched 22 November 2009). We checked cross-references and searched references from review articles. Finally, we contacted manufacturers and specialised centres for unpublished and ongoing trials. Selection criteria Trials in which individuals with pulmonary arteriovenous malformations were randomly allocated to embolisation therapy compared to no treatment, surgical resection or a different embolisation device. Studies identified for potential inclusion were independently assessed for eligibility by two authors, with excluded studies further checked by a third author. Data collection and analysis No trials were identified. As this was the case, no analysis was performed. Main results There were no randomised controlled trials identified.