Arteriovenous Malformation of the Oral Cavity: A Case Report

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are part of a group of vascular anomalies which can be further sub classified into neoplasms and malformations, characterized by specific morphology, pathophysiology, clinical behaviour and management. AVMs in the oral and maxillofacial region are rare but potentially life-threatening vascular lesions. Bleeding, facial asymmetry, loose teeth and headache are commonly seen at presentation. Management of maxillofacial AVMs remains challenging, as total excision is required to ensure complete cure and to prevent recurrence, as the remnant AVM has the potential to grow quickly and exceed pre treatment size. Surgical excision however, carries the risk of massive life threatening intraoperative bleeding due to replacement of normal tissue with disease vessels. This case describes a 76 year old female who presented with a bleeding AVM involving the left buccal mucosa who underwent surgical excision.