Although in earlier writings1 it was stated that an arteriovenous aneurysm never heals spontaneously but on the contrary tends to increase in size, it is now a known fact that spontaneous closure of an arteriovenous communication may occur. This statement is supported both by experimental2 and by clinical3 evidence. As Holman3b stated: "Nature not infrequently eliminates it by thrombus and fibrous contraction around the abnormal opening." However, we are impressed with the paucity of material written on this particular phenomenon. For this reason we are submitting a detailed report of a case in which spontaneous closure of a femoral arteriovenous fistula occurred.
Reid and McGuire,3a referring to spontaneous closure of arteriovenous fistulas, stated: "In view of these experiences it is probably wise to use every effort to promote spontaneous healing before resorting to surgery." The same authors advised no immediate or early operation unless (1)