Quarterly update

Published on July 2026

Peripheral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) remain one of the greatest technical and clinical challenges in interventional radiology. Characterized by complex high-flow vascular networks, variable anatomical presentations and a high risk of recurrence, these lesions require meticulous treatment planning, a thorough understanding of angioarchitecture, and often a multidisciplinary approach. Over the past decade, endovascular therapy has become the cornerstone of AVM management, shifting the focus from palliative vessel occlusion towards targeted embolization of the nidus with the aim of achieving durable symptom control while preserving surrounding tissues.

The growing experience reported in CVIR Endovascular reflects the remarkable evolution of this field. Advances in liquid embolic agents, balloon-assisted techniques, ultra-thin microcatheters and staged embolization strategies have expanded the range of lesions that can be treated safely and effectively. At the same time, reports describing complex visceral, renal, hepatic, uterine and superficial AVMs demonstrate how individualized treatment strategies can be successfully adapted to challenging anatomical locations and diverse clinical scenarios. These publications also highlight the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, particularly when embolization is integrated with surgery or used as a definitive organ-preserving therapy.

Equally valuable are the lessons learned from procedural complications and technical rescue strategies. Careful analysis of non-target embolization, troubleshooting during embolization procedures, and innovative bailout techniques underscores that successful AVM treatment depends not only on technical expertise but also on anticipating risks and responding effectively when unexpected events occur. Together, these experiences contribute to improving procedural safety and refining best practice.

In this Quarterly Update, we bring together a selection of CVIR Endovascular publications that illustrate the breadth of contemporary AVM management—from fundamental concepts in vascular anomalies and paediatric considerations to cutting-edge embolization techniques and complex clinical cases. Collectively, these articles demonstrate how continuous technical innovation, thoughtful procedural planning and multidisciplinary care are advancing the treatment of one of the most demanding areas of interventional radiology.

Don't miss the Quarterly update trivia quiz and see how much you know!

Quarterly Update 10: Joint embolisation

Quarterly Update 9: Pelvic congestion syndrome

Quarterly Update 8: Clinical Management

Quarterly Update 7: Lymphatics

Quarterly Update 6: Venous Thrombosis

Quarterly Update 5: Sustainability in IR

Quarterly Update 4: Complications in IR

Quarterly Update 3: Paediatric interventions

Quarterly Update 2: Urgent embolisation

Quarterly Update 1: Infertility

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