Page "Arteriovenous malformation" Paragraph 24

Arteriovenous malformations, also known as AVMs, are deficiencies of the cardiovascular system.

In a normal functioning human body, arteries carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to the rest of the body, and veins return oxygen-depleted blood to the lungs and heart.

An AVM interferes with this cyclical process.

Instead of the gradual transition through the capillaries from arteries to veins that is typical of normal functioning vasculature, AVMs cause direct associations of the arteries and veins.

AVMs can cause intense pain and lead to serious medical problems.

Although AVMs are often associated with the brain and spinal cord, they can develop in any part of the body.