Angiographic evaluation of the head and neck

Periodontal manifestations and management of a patient with AV malformation

Arterio-venous malformation (AVM) is an abnormal communication between an artery and a vein. The incidence of its occurrence in oral and maxillofacial region is rare, and if present, the most common sign is gingival bleeding. A 12-year-old female patient presented with an extra oral swelling in relation with upper lip. Intra oral examination showed non tender gingival swelling with spontaneous bleeding associated with maxillary arch. On initiation of phase I therapy using hand instruments, spontaneous brisk bleeding was encountered which was difficult to control. Because of severe nature of hemorrhage encountered, some type of vascular abnormality was suspected. Ultrasonography followed by angiography confirmed AVM in relation with upper lip. Embolization of lesion was followed by gingivectomy procedure and no recurrence was reported during one year of follow-up. Thus, proper recognition and therapeutic intervention is essential to avoid serious complications and potentially tragic outcome in such situations.