At Nuffield Vascular and Interventional Radiology, we are here to support you. Dr. Suresh Babu, our vascular and interventional radiologist provides personalised care plans tailored to your specific needs, including the management of head and neck vascular malformations such as haemangiomas and lymphatic malformations.
Vascular malformations encompass a complex range of conditions, commonly referred to as venous malformations, arteriovenous malformations, arteriovenous fistulas, lymphatic malformations, haemangiomas, and lymphangiomas. These malformations involve abnormal collections of blood vessels that can develop anywhere in the body.
In a healthy vascular system, arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body’s cells, gradually branching into tiny capillaries where cells receive oxygen and nutrients. Capillaries then collect deoxygenated blood and deliver it to veins, which return the blood to the heart and lungs for reoxygenation. Vascular malformations disrupt this normal flow.
A vascular malformation occurs when the network of blood vessels develops abnormally. These malformations can vary in type and appearance, with the most commonly encountered being venous malformations and arteriovenous malformations.
Venous malformations often appear as blue or skin-coloured, soft lumps beneath the skin. They can range in size from small, subtle lesions to large formations causing significant enlargement or deformity of the affected area. In contrast, arteriovenous malformations are usually more prominent, characterised by high blood flow in the affected region.
In the brain and spine, arteriovenous malformations and arteriovenous fistulas are most frequently observed. Other vascular abnormalities, such as venous malformations, haemangiomas, and lymphatic malformations, are more commonly found in areas like the face, head and neck, or other parts of the body.
The face, head, and neck region are among the most commonly affected areas, along with the limbs. Arteriovenous malformations within the brain and spinal cord are particularly critical due to their potential impact.
Vascular malformations can first appear at any age, though they are more commonly seen in young patients. In some cases, they may only become noticeable later in life, having grown slowly over time.
Symptoms of vascular malformations vary depending on their location. Those within the brain can be life-threatening, while others, such as soft lumps in the facial region, may cause facial asymmetry and cosmetic concerns. These malformations can also lead to recurrent bleeding and may invade surrounding tissues over time, potentially causing further complications.
Vascular malformations require personalised care tailored to their type, location, and symptoms. Treatment options include minimally invasive methods like sclerotherapy (injecting chemicals to block the malformation) and embolisation, surgery, or medical therapy for select cases. Often, multiple sessions or combination treatments are needed, as inadequate initial treatment increases the risk of recurrence.
Managing these conditions is complex and typically requires a multidisciplinary approach handled by specialists experienced in vascular malformation care. At our clinic, we provide diagnosis and treatment for peripheral vascular malformations, as well as neurointerventional treatments for issues affecting the brain, spine, head, and neck.
I’m here to help you regain control of your health. Together, we’ll manage your symptoms and prevent future complications using personalised care and innovative technology. – Dr Suresh Babu