Peripheral Vascular Malformations

If abnormal blood vessels affect your daily life, Dr Suresh Babu, our Senior Consultant, Vascular and Interventional Radiologist, provides personalised care and tailored treatment to meet your needs.

Understanding Peripheral Vascular Malformations

Vascular malformations are abnormal clusters of blood vessels that can form anywhere in the body. They are commonly found in the head and neck, followed by the limbs and chest wall, though they may occasionally affect abdominal organs and lungs. These masses are benign (noncancerous) but tend to grow over time, potentially invading nearby tissues. Growth rates can vary, with some rapid phases often occurring during puberty. Contrary to popular belief, vascular malformations can appear at any age, not just in children or young adults.

Types of Vascular Malformations

Arteriovenous Malformations (AVM): Large, pulsating masses that are usually localised.
Venous Malformations (VM): Soft, bluish, or skin-coloured lumps under the skin, often more diffuse.
Lymphatic Malformations (LM): Skin-coloured soft tissue masses formed by abnormal lymphatic channels.
Lymphovenous Malformations (LVM): A less common combination of venous and lymphatic malformations.
Hemangiomas: Benign tumours of blood vessels, commonly seen as red birthmarks in infants, often on the face, scalp, back, or chest.

These conditions require tailored medical attention due to their unique characteristics and progression.

Signs and Symptoms

Vascular malformations typically appear as soft tissue masses or lumps. Additional symptoms may include swelling of the affected area, recurrent bleeding, infections, or inflammation. Since these malformations can occur in any part of the body, their symptoms vary depending on the location involved.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of vascular malformations is typically made through a thorough clinical examination. The most effective imaging tool is an MRI scan, though some patients may also require ultrasound or CT scans for detailed evaluation and treatment planning.

Treatment of Vascular Malformations

Managing vascular malformations can be complex and often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Treatment is best handled by specialists with experience in the care of these conditions. Available treatment options include:

Medical Management: Certain malformations respond well to medication, reducing symptoms or controlling growth.
Surgical Excision: Complete surgical removal is crucial to prevent rapid recurrence. However, surgery can be complex and, in some cases, lead to disfigurement.
Sclerotherapy: This interventional procedure halts the growth of malformations by injecting a sclerosant. Depending on the malformation’s type and size, multiple sessions may be required.
Embolisation: A minimally invasive procedure used to block blood flow to abnormal vessels while preserving normal blood flow.
Laser Treatment: Commonly used for symptomatic hemangiomas that do not resolve with medication or spontaneously. Most hemangiomas naturally diminish by the age of six.
Cryoablation: A technique that involves freezing the malformation to stop its progression or alleviate symptoms.

Each treatment is tailored to the patient’s condition, aiming to provide an effective yet minimally invasive solution.

Your Health, Our Priority

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