Vascular Malformation

A vascular malformation is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins, leading to a tangled network of blood vessels. These malformations can occur anywhere in the body, including the brain and spinal cord. Although some vascular malformations are congenital (present at birth), others may develop later in life due to genetic factors, injury, or surgical procedures.

These malformations can lead to pain at the location or internal bleeding. You may need surgery to correct them.

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On this page 

• What Is a Vascular Malformation?
• What Are the Symptoms of a Vascular Malformation?
• How Do You Diagnose a Vascular Malformation?
• How Do You Treat a Vascular Malformation?

What Is a Vascular Malformation?

A vascular malformation is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins, leading to a tangled network of blood vessels. These malformations can occur anywhere in the body, including the brain and spinal cord. Although some vascular malformations are congenital (present at birth), others may develop later in life due to genetic factors, injury, or surgical procedures.

What are the types of vascular malformations?

The most common types of vascular malformations include:

• Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) — These occur when oxygen-rich blood bypasses normal capillary networks and flows directly into veins. This can deprive surrounding tissues of oxygen, leading to tissue damage or rupture, causing internal bleeding.
• Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) — These involve an abnormal connection between arteries and veins, often in the spinal cord. AVFs account for 70 percent of spinal vascular malformations and can lead to congestion, high blood pressure in veins, and reduced blood flow to critical areas.

What causes vascular malformations?

Vascular malformations may be caused by:

• Congenital genetic mutations or hereditary conditions.
• Surgical procedures that alter blood vessel structures.
• Trauma or injury to the central nervous system.

What are vascular malformation risk factors and complications?  

Vascular malformation risk factors

Risk factors for developing vascular malformations include:

• Central nervous system injuries.
• Family history of vascular malformations.
• Genetic syndromes, such as hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, Sturge-Weber syndrome, or Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome.
• Underlying genetic mutations affecting blood vessel formation.

Complications of vascular malformations

Vascular malformations can be minor and only cause back issues and leg pain, or more severe and lead to acute hemorrhaging.

AVMs in the brain carry a risk of epilepsy. They can also rupture and cause internal bleeding.  

How common are vascular formations?

AVFs are more common in men and usually occur between ages 50 and 80. People with AVMs are typically under age 30.

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What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Vascular Malformation?

The symptoms of vascular malformations vary depending on their location and type.

Symptoms of AVMs

• Balance and coordination problems.
• Chronic headaches. 
• Muscle weakness or paralysis.
• Numbness or tingling in your limbs.
• Random episodes of pain.
• Seizures.
• Unusual sensations, such as burning or warmth.

Symptoms of AVFs

• Erectile dysfunction.
• Loss of bowel and bladder control.
• Progressive weakness, particularly in the legs.

When should I see a doctor about my vascular malformation symptoms? 

If you experience any symptoms associated with vascular malformations, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Some vascular malformations can cause life-threatening complications, such as internal bleeding or nerve damage.

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How Do You Diagnose a Vascular Malformation?

To accurately diagnose a vascular malformation, your doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination and review your medical history.

Your doctor may order imaging tests including:

• CT scan — Provides detailed images of blood vessels and helps detect abnormalities.
• Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) — Identifies the precise location of the vascular malformation.
• MRI — Helps determine the exact size and extent of the malformation, which is crucial for treatment planning.

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How Do You Treat a Vascular Malformation?  

The treatment approach for vascular malformations depends on their severity, location, and associated symptoms.

Resection surgery for vascular malformations 

Resection surgery involves removing the abnormal blood vessels. Although some malformations cannot be entirely removed, surgical correction can alleviate symptoms.

Endovascular embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces blood flow to the malformation by injecting a glue-like substance into the affected artery.

What happens during embolization?

During endovascular embolization:

• Your neurosurgeon inserts a thin tube into an artery in your leg and guides it to the malformation using x-ray imaging.
• Your neurosurgeon injects a blocking agent (such as a medical glue or coil) to reduce blood flow to the malformation.

Endovascular embolization may be performed before surgery to make surgical removal easier and safer.

How effective is treatment?

Surgical and endovascular treatments for vascular malformations have a high success rate in managing symptoms and preventing complications. However, these procedures do not prevent new malformations from forming in the future.

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Why Choose UPMC for Vascular Malformation Treatment?

UPMC specialists use advanced diagnostic tools and the latest minimally invasive procedures to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for vascular malformations. Our team offers the safest, most effective treatment options that improve outcomes and enhance quality of life.

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By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-05-16.