[Arteriovenous malformation in the mandibula]

A 15-year-old autistic boy of subnormal intelligence appeared at the office of his dental practitioner complaining about pain in the third quadrant. Investigation revealed that the second molar could be intruded easily. No other irregularities, such as caries or periodontal disease were apparent. Due to the severe pain it was decided that the tooth should be extracted. Extraction of the tooth induced massive bleeding. Hemostasis was achieved by repositioning the molar in its alveolus, according to the principle of putting a cork in a bottle. Radiographic investigation showed the presence of an intraosseous arteriovenous malformation. These malformations are potentially life-threatening lesions. Treatment of choice is a combination of transarterial embolization and surgical removal of the malformation