Endovascular treatment of arteriovenous fistulas arising from branches of the subclavian artery.
OBJECTIVE
The goal of this study was to evaluate the role of endovascular techniques in the treatment of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) in the subclavian region.


METHODS
Since 1984 six patients with AVFs arising from branches of the subclavian artery have been treated. All AVFs were of iatrogenic origin (five venous punctures and one pacemaker insertion). Two patients had cardiac insufficiency, three had a bruit, and one had upper extremity venous hypertension. Angiographically, four of the AVFs were located on the thyrocervical trunk and two were on the internal mammary artery.


RESULTS
All fistulas were treated by means of endovascular occlusion with a detachable balloon, with full resolution of symptoms. One AVF recurred after a balloon deflated prematurely. The patient was treated again and was subsequently cured. No other complications were associated with treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Endovascular balloon occlusion of AVFs in the subclavian region is a simple, effective, and safe method that eliminates the need for surgery. It should be the method of choice for treatment of these lesions.
Herbreteau
D
D
Division of Interventional Neuroangiography, Lariboisiere Hospital, University of Paris, France.
Aymard
A
A
Khayata
M H
MH
Reizine
D
D
Riche
M C
MC
Guichard
J P
JP
Merland
J J
JJ
D001164:Arteriovenous Fistula / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy*; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015641:Radiography, Interventional; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013348:Subclavian Artery / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging