Recurrence after treatment of arteriovenous malformations of the head and neck

Objective Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are aggressive diseases with a high tendency to recur. AVM treatment is complex, especially in the anatomically difficult head and neck region. This study analyzed correlations between extracranial head and neck AVM presentations and the frequency of recurrence. Methods We retrospectively assessed AVM recurrence among 55 patients with head and neck AVMs treated with embolization and resection between January 2008 and December 2015. Recurrence was defined as any evidence of AVM expansion following embolization and resection. Patient variables, including sex, age, AVM size, AVM location, stage, and treatment modalities, were examined for correlations with the recurrence of head and neck AVMs. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0. Results A total of 55 patients with at least 6 months of follow-up following AVM treatment with embolization and surgical resection were enrolled in this study. During follow-up, 14 of 55 patients experienced recurrence (the long-term recurrence rate was 25.5%). Sex, stage, AVM size, and treatment modality were identified as independent predictors of recurrence. Recurrence was less likely following the treatment of lower-stage or smaller lesions and did not correlate with age or location. Conclusions AVMs of the head and neck are among the most challenging conditions to manage due to a high risk of recurrence. Early and total AVM resection is the best method for preventing recurrence.