A 36-year-old patient recently underwent successful surgery at Viet-Han Da Nang Hospital to remove a complex arteriovenous malformation (AVM) located behind his left ear. This vascular anomaly involved numerous blood vessels and posed a significant risk of rupture.
Doctor Nguyen Luong Tan, from the Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at Viet-Han Da Nang Hospital, explained that an AVM is a condition where blood vessels connect directly, causing incorrect blood flow. "This mass carries a risk of rupture from minor impact or injury," Doctor Tan stated. "Additionally, excessive blood flow through the malformation can lead to long-term cardiac overload, increasing the risk of heart failure."
The patient, identified as Phong in image captions, developed this abnormal mass in 2013. Initially painless, he only monitored its progression. Over time, the mass grew larger, became prominent under the skin, and pulsated with his heartbeat. In 2020, he underwent stent placement, but the swelling continued to grow.
He was admitted on 25/5 experiencing dizziness and discomfort. A 3x4 cm swelling was observed behind his left ear, accompanied by numerous large, pulsating blood vessels across his scalp and forehead. Subsequent Doppler ultrasound and DSA imaging at Viet-Han Da Nang Hospital confirmed arteriovenous communication in the branches of the left external carotid artery, with the lesion extending to the top of his head and the occipital region.
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Image of patient Phong's head vascular malformation. *Photo: Bui Huan* |
The surgical team accessed the external carotid artery to control the blood supply, then dissected and completely removed the malformation. Post-surgery, the scalp veins gradually collapsed, and ultrasound no longer showed arteriovenous communication.
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Patient Phong after surgery. *Photo: Bui Huan* |
Doctors advise that if an unusual swelling is detected in the head, face, or neck area, accompanied by a pulsating sensation, increasing pain, dizziness, or drooping eyelids, it is crucial to seek early medical examination for timely treatment to avoid dangerous complications.
Nguyen Dong
