Endovascular embolization of a traumatic arteriovenous fistula of the superficial temporal artery

Abstract

Arteriovenous fistula of the superficial temporal artery is a rare condition most commonly caused by trauma. Traditional surgical treatment has been superseded by endovascular embolization. We present the case of a 40 year-old man with a traumatic arteriovenous fistula of the superficial temporal artery who was treated by endovascular embolization. The advantages of this approach are discussed, along with a brief history of the condition.

Embolization of High-Flow Craniofacial Vascular Malformations with Onyx

“…8 In some patients, endovascular treatment sufficed as the only treatment with durable clinical results. 9 We were able to find only 4 patients with CHVMs in the literature 10,11 where Onyx was used as a liquid embolic agent for endovascular treatment. Three of these patients were treated as a part of the multicenter preclinical evaluation of this agent for head and neck hypervascular lesions.…”

Traumatic arteriovenous fistula of the superficial temporal artery

“…[6][7][8] Treatment for arteriovenous fistulae of the superficial temporal artery should take account of the elevated blood flow through the fistula, the complex vascular anatomy and the esthetic issues involved. 9,10 Treatment is indicated to reduce esthetic problems, to prevent hemorrhage and ischemic skin erosion …”

“…9,10 Treatment options include surgical excision, ligature of the vessels providing blood supply, transarterial and transvenous embolization and injection of sclerosing agents into the lesion. 9,10 Endovascular embolization can be employed as a definitive treatment or as an adjuvant to a surgical procedure, reducing blood loss during removal of the pulsating mass; but it is not alone sufficient for extensive arteriovenous fistulae, providing only temporary relief from symptoms, involving a high risk of recurrence and conferring a risk of cutaneous necrosis. 9,10 Surgical removal of the pulsating mass and ligature of the vessels feeding the arteriovenous fistulae remains the treatment of choice.…”

“…9,10 Surgical removal of the pulsating mass and ligature of the vessels feeding the arteriovenous fistulae remains the treatment of choice. 9,10 …”

Untitled

“…successful embolization of scalp AVF [5][6][7]10,15,16]. We present a case of scalp AVF following hair transplantation with special attention paid to the management of the lesion.…”