Imaging Diagnosis—radiographic, Ultrasonographic, Computed Tomographic, and Fluoroscopic Appearance of a Distal Pelvic Limb Arteriovenous Malformation in a Young German Shepherd Dog

Abstract

A German shepherd puppy presented for evaluation of a suspected arteriovenous fistula on the distal aspect of the right pelvic limb. Radiographs demonstrated expansion and resorption of the tarsal and metatarsal bones, and ultrasound detected a vascular abnormality. Using computed tomographic angiography, a complex arteriovenous malformation (AVM) involving the distal tibia, tarsus, and the metatarsus and an osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesion of the talus were identified. Based on these findings, therapeutic limb amputation was performed. Fluoroscopic angiography, vascular casting, and dissection were then used to further characterize features of this previously unreported AVM with concurrent bony lesions and OCD.

Dominant outflow vein occlusion in the management of naturally occurring peripheral arteriovenous anomalies in cats and dogs

“…As previously demonstrated 31,34,37,38 and reinforced in this report, CTA and angiography are invaluable throughout diagnosis, treatment, and follow‐up evaluation. In addition to reaching a diagnosis, CTA arterial and venous studies facilitate the interpretation of anomalous blood flow, while postprocessing 3‐dimensional reconstruction supplements the anatomical “blue‐print” for surgical planning.…”

“…The cat in this report was monitored for such potential complications postembolization with no evidence of pyrexia or nontarget embolization observed. Where advanced intravascular techniques are not available or surgical excision is not feasible due to patient or owner factors, limb amputation has been deliberated 9,28,34 and performed 33,36,37 …”

“…Where advanced intravascular techniques are not available or surgical excision is not feasible due to patient or owner factors, limb amputation has been deliberated 9 , 28 , 34 and performed. 33 , 36 , 37 …”