PAVM embolization

PAVM embolization is a minimally invasive treatment for pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (PAVM). PAVMs are abnormal connections between blood vessels in the lungs that allow blood to skip the normal process of picking up oxygen and filtering the blood. During PAVM embolization, these faulty connections are blocked, which can improve oxygen levels and reduce the risk of serious problems, such as stroke or infection in the brain. This safe and effective treatment is the mainstay of PAVM care and does not require surgery.

Penn Medicine has deep experience treating PAVM with embolization. A specialized team brings expertise in managing both straightforward and complex cases. For patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), a genetic condition often associated with PAVM, treatment is supported through a dedicated HHT Program recognized by Cure HHT as a Center of Excellence. This program offers coordinated, expert care across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Not everyone with a PAVM needs treatment right away. PAVM embolization is done when there is a higher risk of health problems. It is often considered if:

• The PAVM is large enough to raise the risk of complications
• Symptoms such as shortness of breath, tiredness, or low oxygen levels are present
• There have been complications like stroke or brain infection (abscess)

Your Penn Medicine care team will review imaging results, symptoms, and overall health to decide whether embolization is a good option for you.

PAVM embolization is designed to block abnormal blood flow and help blood move through the lungs the way it should. Here’s what usually happens:

• Your doctor places a thin tube (catheter) into a blood vessel in the leg.
• Using imaging for guidance, the doctor carefully moves the catheter to the abnormal blood vessels in the lungs.
• Small plugs, sometimes supplemented with coil, are placed to close off the PAVM.
• Blood is then redirected through healthy lung tissue, where it can pick up oxygen and be filtered appropriately.
• The procedure usually takes a few hours.

This treatment works from inside the blood vessel and does not require incisions, which helps make recovery easier for many people.

Recovery after PAVM embolization is often quicker than many people expect. People can return to normal activities the day after the procedure. Some mild soreness where the catheter was placed is common and usually improves on its own. Mild, self-limited chest pain occurs in about a third of patients. Oxygen levels may continue to improve over the weeks that follow.

Follow-up imaging is an important part of care, as it helps confirm that the PAVM was fully treated. With regular monitoring, many people feel better and have greater peace of mind after treatment.