CONGENITAL ARTERIOVENOUS-FISTULAS SUPPLIED BY A SINGLE BRANCH OF THE MAXILLARY ARTERY

We report four cases (two children, two adults) of congenital arteriov enous fistula supplied by a single large (pterygoid) branch of the sec ond part of the maxillary artery deep to the parotid gland and mandibl e, with emphasis on the angiographic findings, therapeutic implication s, and cause, with a review of the literature. Awareness of a predilec tion of congenital arteriovenous fistulas for this site, excellent-qua lity selective angiography, and careful attention to flow patterns hel p make the correct diagnosis. Endovascular balloon occlusion is the pr eferred treatment.