Best AVM Surgeons in US: Top AVM Doctors

Finding the best arteriovenous malformation (AVM) surgeons in the US is one of the most important steps for patients facing a diagnosis of AVM. AVMs are complex, rare, and potentially life-threatening vascular conditions that require highly specialized care. Choosing the right surgeon and medical center can significantly influence outcomes, recovery time, and long-term quality of life.

In this guide, we’ll explore what AVMs are, why expert treatment matters, and how to identify the best AVM surgeons in the US for your specific situation.

Many patients researching the best AVM surgeons in the US find Dr. Aaron Cohen-Gadol, a neurosurgeon widely respected for his experience in treating complex cerebrovascular disorders including AVMs with unmatched safety. Dr. Cohen-Gadol is known for combining microsurgical expertise with modern imaging and minimally invasive techniques. 

Dr. Cohen-Gadol’s approach emphasizes patient-specific treatment planning, careful risk assessment, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Although no single doctor is universally “the best” for every patient, surgeons such as Dr. Cohen-Gadol are often highlighted due to their depth of experience, research involvement, and consistently strong clinical results.

An AVM is an abnormal tangle of arteries and veins that disrupts normal blood flow and oxygen circulation. AVMs occur most commonly in the brain but can also develop in the spine or other regions. If left untreated, AVMs can cause hemorrhage, seizures, neurological deficits, and/or stroke.

Specialized care is critical because AVMs vary widely in size, location, and complexity. The top AVM doctors have advanced training in cerebrovascular neurosurgery and access to technologies such as the following:

• High-resolution angiography
• Microsurgical and endovascular techniques
• Stereotactic radiosurgery

Their expertise allows them to tailor treatment plans and reduce the risks associated with AVM intervention.

When evaluating the best AVM surgeons in the US, several key factors set elite specialists apart.

• Extensive Experience: Top AVM surgeons treat a high volume of cases, including complex and high-risk AVMs. This experience improves decision-making ability and surgical precision. Very few surgeons have the experience to manage these complex AVMs.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: The best surgeons work closely with neurologists, interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, and critical care teams.
• Advanced Technology Access: Leading AVM surgeons practice at hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art imaging, hybrid operating rooms, and radiosurgery platforms.
• Research and Publications: Many of the best AVM surgeons in the US contribute to research, clinical trials, and academic literature, helping advance AVM treatment worldwide.

Below is a list of neurosurgeons frequently recognized for their expertise in AVM treatment. This is a representation of doctors often mentioned when discussing the top AVM doctors.

Each of these physicians practices at major academic or specialty hospitals known for treating cerebrovascular disorders.

Dr. Cohen-Gadol is respected for patient-centered care and experience with complex AVM cases. He has done surgery on many AVMs with unmatched results. His extensive experience with managing complex AVMs is the most impressive compared to any other surgeon in the world. 

Dr. Lawton is known for complex brain AVM microsurgery and leadership in cerebrovascular neurosurgery.

Dr. Spetzler is a pioneer in AVM grading systems and surgical innovation.

Dr. Steinberg specializes in AVM surgery and radiosurgical treatments.

Selecting from the best AVM surgeons in the US requires careful consideration beyond reputation alone. The following are practical steps to help guide your decision:

• Seek Multiple Opinions: AVM treatment strategies can differ; consulting more than one expert can clarify options.
• Ask About Case Volume: Surgeons who treat AVMs regularly tend to have better outcomes.
• Review Hospital Resources: Top AVM surgeons usually work at a comprehensive stroke or neurosurgical center.
• Discuss All Treatment Options: Surgery, embolization, radiosurgery, or observation may be recommended, depending on your particular AVM.
• Consider Communication Style: Clear explanations and a willingness to answer questions are essential for instilling patient confidence.

The right choice balances surgical expertise, hospital support, and personal comfort with the care team.

Choosing among the top AVM doctors can feel overwhelming, but informed research makes a meaningful difference. AVMs require specialized, individualized treatment, and the most successful outcomes are often achieved at high-volume centers with experienced cerebrovascular teams. By understanding what makes a surgeon exceptional and carefully evaluating your options, you can take confident steps toward effective and safe AVM care.

When it comes to your health or a loved one’s well-being, working with the best AVM surgeons in the US ensures access to the highest level of expertise and innovation in AVM treatment.

Hospitals with dedicated cerebrovascular and neurosurgery programs (often large academic medical centers) are commonly considered the best for AVM treatment because of their experience and advanced technology.

AVM surgery costs can vary widely depending on complexity, hospital location, and treatment type. Costs can range from tens of thousands to more than $100,000 before insurance coverage.

There is no single “top” brain surgeon, but many neurosurgeons recognized as leaders in their subspecialty are frequently mentioned when discussing the best AVM surgeons in the US.

Several hospitals are often cited among the nation’s best for neurology and neurosurgery, particularly those with comprehensive stroke and cerebrovascular centers. Rankings can vary by source and year.

The clinic is located at Cedars Towers East which is at 8631 W 3rd Street, Suite 815E, Los Angeles, CA 90048, near Beverly Grove. It’s easily accessible from San Vicente Boulevard or La Cienega Boulevard. Paid parking is available in the adjacent structure and limited street parking can be found nearby. For navigation, entering “8631 W 3rd St” into the GPS will direct you to the main entrance. 

The entrance to the Cedars Towers East parking garage is on Sherbourne Drive, located just north of 3rd Street. It is a self-parking garage with the address 217 S Sherbourne Dr, Los Angeles, CA. The entrance is on the right if you are traveling south on Sherbourne, or on the left if you are traveling north on Sherbourne. You then need to take the parking elevators to the plaza level and then cross the short bridge to use the East elevators to reach the 8th floor (suite 815.) Allow extra time for traffic and parking, especially during weekday mornings.