Absolute ethanol embolization for peripheral arteriovenous malformation: report of two cures.

We have reported two patients in whom absolute ethanol was used to sclerose arteriovenous malformations. Because of its low viscosity, liquid form, and devastating effect when injected intra-arterially, absolute ethanol is effective in treating AVMs, and it has been proven to have curative potential. For these same reasons it is also potentially harmful, particularly to nerves and possibly to skin.