From the Research
Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) of the face are typically fed by branches of the external carotid artery, internal carotid artery, or both, with the most recent and highest quality study 1 supporting this claim. The main feeding arteries include:
- Facial artery
- Superficial temporal artery
- Maxillary artery
- Occipital artery from the external carotid system The ophthalmic artery, a branch of the internal carotid artery, may also contribute to facial AVMs, particularly those involving the periorbital region 1. In more complex cases, the infraorbital artery, angular artery, and transverse facial artery may also serve as feeders. Less commonly, branches of the internal maxillary artery such as the sphenopalatine and descending palatine arteries can supply deeper facial AVMs. Understanding the arterial supply is crucial for treatment planning, as complete embolization or surgical resection requires identification of all feeding vessels to prevent recurrence, as highlighted in 1.
The rich anastomotic network between these arteries makes facial AVMs particularly challenging to treat, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach combining endovascular embolization and surgical excision for optimal outcomes, as noted in 1. This approach is supported by the most recent study 1, which emphasizes the importance of considering not only the treatment strategy but also the preservation of cosmetic appearance and critical functions when planning endovascular treatment of head and neck AVMs.
In clinical practice, identifying the specific feeding arteries is essential for effective treatment, and a thorough understanding of the vascular anatomy is necessary to prevent complications and achieve optimal outcomes, as highlighted in 1. The study 1 provides the most recent and highest quality evidence, and its findings should be prioritized when making treatment decisions for facial AVMs.