- Conditions Treated: Pulmonary arteriovenous malformation (pAVM), hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysm
- Reason for Procedure: A pAVM is a direct communication between a pulmonary artery and vein. These abnormal communications can compromise oxygenation, causing shortness of breath. Large pAVMs can serve as a conduit for clots and bacteria to bypass the lungs, known as paradoxical emboli, which can lead to stroke or brain abscesses. Additionally, pAVMs are at risk of rupture, which may cause life-threatening bleeding.
- How It’s Performed: An Interventional Radiologist will access a vein in your leg. A small catheter is advanced into your pulmonary arteries. Contrast dye is injected to study your blood vessels. If a pAVM is present, it will be shut down using small metal coils or plugs.
- Anesthesia: Conscious Sedation
- Recovery Time: 1-2 hours
- For more information and to schedule a consultation with one of our IR physicians, please call 631-403-7088
