Hemodynamics of the central nervous system arteriovenous malformation nidus during particulate embolization. A computer model.

We have modelled the hemodynamics of the nidus of the central nervous system (CNS) arteriovenous malformation (AVM) during the process of particulate embolization. The model accurately reproduces the visually apparent incremental slowing observed during such embolization of CNS AVMs. The model is simple and proposes that the nidus is composed of many identical microchannels. As the microchannels are occluded by particles at a constant rate, the rate of change of flow reduction with each bolus of emboli constantly increases exponentially. A rapid reduction in apparent flow rate occurs immediately prior to complete occlusion. With a more accurate understanding of the working of the nidus of CNS AVMs we can increase the safety of therapeutic particulate embolization.