Kate’s brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) — a dangerous tangle of blood vessels connecting arteries and veins in the brain — was successfully embolized and surgically removed by cerebrovascular neurosurgeon Dr. Justin Caplan. Watch her story. | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Case Study 199: Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs) An Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) is a rare, tangled web of arteries and veins that connect abnormally, bypassing the normal capillary system. This causes high-pressure arterial blood to flow directly into fragile veins which were never designed to handle that stress. Over time, this can lead to: ⚠️ Micro-bleeds (tiny, often silent leaks) ⚠️ Seizures or headaches ⚠️ Stroke or hemorrhage if rupture occurs AVMs are often congenital, meaning peop