Dr. Chen is a neurosurgeon specializing in cerebrovascular, endovascular, and brain tumors.
Brain Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) treatment
Our multidisciplinary team provides expert care for complex neurological conditions.
Brain Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) treatment
Our multidisciplinary team provides expert care for complex neurological conditions.
Brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) care at UW Medicine
At UW Medicine, we provide exceptional care for brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM), a complex and potentially life-threatening condition. Our multidisciplinary approach brings together the expertise of world-class neurosurgeons, radiologists and neurologists, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated treatment strategy.
Our focus is not only on treating the AVM but also on minimizing potential neurological damage and preserving quality of life. Our team is committed to delivering the highest standard of medical care, personalized support and guidance throughout the treatment journey.
How is an AVM treated?
Our focus at UW Medicine is not only on treating the AVM but also on minimizing potential neurological damage and preserving quality of life. Our team tailors your AVM treatment plan to your specific diagnosis, while also accounting for factors such as your age and overall health.
AVM treatment options include:
- Surgery — For many people, the safest and most effective treatment is surgically removing the AVM. Our neurosurgeons are nationally and internationally recognized, and we have the most successful outcomes in the Pacific Northwest.
- Gamma Knife radiosurgery — During this outpatient procedure, we treat the AVM with radiation. It takes time for the radiation to work, but it’s a helpful option for AVMs located in deep areas of the brain or in areas too sensitive for surgery.
- Embolization — With this procedure, we treat the AVM from within the arteries, blocking it with a special type of non-toxic polymer. Typically, we use embolization in combination with surgery or radiosurgery.
- Observation — In some cases, the best option is to leave an AVM untreated. But if we recommend observation, we will perform regular MRIs every few years to ensure no further treatment is needed.
At UW Medicine, we’re highly skilled at deciding whether it’s safer to treat your AVM immediately — based on the benefits and risks — or monitor it.
Benefits and risks
What are the benefits of surgical treatment for a brain AVM?
Surgery is one treatment option that can permanently address an AVM by carefully removing it. By doing so, it immediately stops the risk of future bleeding in the brain. For many patients, surgery has a high success rate and can lead to significant improvement—or even complete relief—of symptoms.
What are the possible complications of a brain AVM?
Brain AVMs can cause life-threatening complications if they rupture. Some potential complications of a brain arteriovenous malformation include:
- Hemorrhaging (bleeding)
- Neurological deficits, such as weakness, numbness or paralysis
- Seizures
- Severe headaches
- Stroke
What to expect at UW Medicine
Our multidisciplinary team brings together leading specialists who work closely together to develop a care plan tailored to your individual needs, preferences, and goals. We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help you feel confident in your care decisions.
Surgical treatment: Our neurosurgeons are nationally recognized experts in AVM treatment. When surgery is the right choice, we offer advanced options, including minimally invasive surgery and Gamma Knife® radiosurgery. Your team will carefully explain each option so you understand what to expect and can make informed decisions about your care.
Non-surgical treatment: In some cases, careful observation and monitoring may be the best approach. If non surgical management is right for you, our experienced specialists will closely follow your condition and remain attentive to any changes—always keeping your safety, comfort, and peace of mind as top priorities.
Experienced team of specialists: Whether your treatment plan includes surgery, monitoring, or a combination of approaches, our commitment to you doesn’t end with a decision. We are here to support your physical health, emotional well being, and quality of life—so you can focus on living the best life possible.
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Stephanie H. Chen, MD
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Louis J. Kim, MD, MBA
Dr. Kim specializes exclusively in the treatment of cerebrovascular and spinal vascular lesions such as brain aneurysms, AVMs, and cavernous malformations.
Michael Levitt, MD
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Michael Levitt, MD
Dr. Levitt specializes in minimally invasive treatment of diseases of the brain and spine.
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Laligam N. Sekhar, MD
Dr. Sekhar is a world-renowned expert in treating complex neurosurgical problems, particularly skull base tumors.
Harborview Medical Center
Neurological Surgery Clinic
908 Jefferson St., Ninth & Jefferson Building, 5th Floor
Seattle, WA 98014
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If you have not been diagnosed with an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) and have questions or concerns, it is important to start with your primary care doctor. If you do not have a primary care doctor, consider getting one at UW Medicine.
Frequently asked questions
Do all AVMs need treatment?
No. Some AVMs may not require immediate treatment, especially if they’re not causing symptoms or have a low risk of complications. Your care team will weigh the risks and benefits to recommend the safest approach for you.
When is monitoring for a brain AVM appropriate?
Monitoring may be appropriate if the AVM is stable, not causing symptoms and considered low risk. In these cases, your doctor may recommend regular imaging and follow-up visits to watch for any changes over time.
Can I live a normal life with an AVM?
Many people with an AVM continue their usual daily activities. Your doctor may recommend avoiding certain high-risk activities based on your specific condition. Most people can maintain a good quality of life with appropriate care and monitoring.
How is a brain AVM diagnosed?
If we suspect a brain arteriovenous malformation, we’ll review your medical history and perform a physical exam. Brain AVMs can sometimes be confused with other conditions, such as a capillary malformation, a type of vascular birthmark. We use imaging tests that show areas of blood flow to confirm an AVM. To learn more about diagnostic options, click here.
Brain AVM symptoms: When to seek care?
Sometimes, the first sign of a brain arteriovenous malformation is a brain bleed caused by a ruptured blood vessel. These symptoms can come on quickly and suddenly. To learn more about possible symptoms, click here.
What causes a brain AVM?
The cause of brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) isn’t known. Most people who have them are born with them, but they can form after birth, too. In rare cases, brain AVMs can have a genetic component.
What is a brain AVM?
An arteriovenous malformation, commonly called an AVM, is a tangle of abnormal arteries and veins in a part of the brain. To learn more about AVM, click here.