Massive bleeding after a tooth extraction: Diagnosis of unknown arteriovenous malformation of the mandible, a case report

INTRODUCTION: Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are very rare. Only 5% of them occurs in the jaws but they can manifest with dramatic bleeding and be life-threatening. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We report the case of a 11-year-old healthy girl who presented a massive hemorrhage after extraction of the right mandibular first primary molar. This patient received a blood transfusion and was hospitalized in pediatric intensive care unit. CT angiography highlighted an AVM of the mandible. Treatment consisted in selective embolization. DISCUSSION: A review of the literature shows that the majority of AVMs of the jaws are often unknown until severe bleeding occurs during dental surgery. The low specificity of radiological signs on panoramic radiography makes the diagnosis particularly challenging. Their management requires an interdisciplinary approach. Selective embolization has a place of choice in the treatment of these complex pathologies. CONCLUSION: Although AVMs of the jaws are rare, they are frequently revealed through a massive hemorrhage during tooth extraction. Dentists have to suspect them when young patients present some clinical features, as spontaneous gingival bleeding, unexplained dental mobility, or facial asymmetry.