Condition
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM)
An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a complex tangle of abnormal blood vessels in the brain that disrupts normal blood flow and oxygen circulation. Although most AVMs are congenital, they often remain undetected until symptoms appear. These fragile vessels pose serious risks, including bleeding, seizures, and neurological damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent life-threatening complications.
Castle Connolly and 5280 Magazine, recognized Dr. Arias as a Top Doctor in Neurosurgery in both 2024 and 2025. Patients and peers value his compassionate care, surgical precision, and dedication to advancing neurosurgical techniques. With dual training in neurosurgery and endovascular neuroradiology, Dr. Arias offers both traditional and minimally invasive treatments to patients in Denver, Colorado suffering with complex brain and spine conditions.
Treatments
Resection
Surgical resection involves removing the AVM through open brain surgery. This method is often recommended for accessible AVMs with a high risk of bleeding. Recovery may vary depending on the AVM’s location and size, but many patients experience significant improvement in symptoms.
Embolization
Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that blocks the AVM from within using a catheter and a glue-like substance. Often used as a standalone treatment or in preparation for surgery, embolization reduces the risk of hemorrhage and may improve surgical outcomes.
Gamma Knife
Gamma Knife radiosurgery delivers targeted radiation to the AVM without incisions. This outpatient procedure is ideal for small or deep-seated AVMs. Over time, the radiation causes the AVM to shrink and eventually disappear, with minimal impact on surrounding brain tissue.
Next Steps
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an AVM, schedule a consultation with Dr. Arias to explore personalized treatment options. Early intervention can make a critical difference in long-term outcomes.