Article Text
Abstract
Objective To determine the efficacy of Ethanol Endovascular Repair of Ear Arteriovenous Malformation (AVMs).
Methods Eleven patients (8 female, 3 males; age range 6–39 years; mean age: 22 years) with ear AVMs presented for therapy. Two patients had failed prior embolizations (PVA/coils/nBCA/steroids) and 2 patients had other therapies (laser/excisions/grafting). All presented with grossly enlarged painful ear with intermittent bleeding. All patients underwent transcatheter direct puncture ethanol Rx (86 procedures).
Results All 11 patients were cured of the AVM at long-term follow-up (mean follow-up: 52 months). One patient had transient partial VII nerve palsy. Two patients had minor blisters and ear injuries that resolved without treatment.
Conclusions Ethanol endovascular repair of Ear AVMs can effect cures in this vexing lesion that previously was treated with resection of the ear and untoward recurrence rates. This series documents long-term cures of AVMs of the ear and scalp. Only one publication on ethanol curative treatment of Ear AVMs (AJNR 2009; Oct; 30(9):1679–84) exists in the world’s literature to whom I taught this technique. Their curative experience duplicates my experience. No recurrences occurred in my patient series as well.
Disclosures W. Yakes: None.