What happens after my procedure?
Most people can go home after being monitored in the recovery area for a few hours.
You will follow up with your clinician in a few weeks to see how you responded to the treatment. They may order another radiology exam. Most people respond well. The AVM returns or new AVMs develop in up to 1 in 5 people. If this happens, embolization can safely be repeated.
Leave the dressing on for 24 hours, then you may remove them and shower.
Do not put any creams or medicines on the wound.
Replace the bandage until the wound is closed, usually 24-48 hours.
Do not soak the wound (bath or pool) until it is completely healed (around 72 hours).
No exercise or exertion until the wound is completely healed (around 72 hours).
Symptoms you may notice:
Temporary chest pain with coughing or deep breathing.
You may feel groggy from the medicines used during the procedure to keep you comfortable. Headache and nausea may occur but usually do not last longer than 12-24 hours.
You may have soreness and bruising around the wound.
When to call your clinician or 911?
Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
Uncontrollable pain, new leg or arm weakness, numbness or tingling
New difficulty speaking or seeing
Sudden extremely painful headache
Sudden trouble breathing or shortness of breath, coughing up blood
New bleeding, swelling, redness or darkness at the wound