Vascular anomalies
The clinic
The Vascular Anomalies Clinic is a collaborative, multidisciplinary team that provides care to pediatric patients with disorders of blood and lymphatic vessel growth and development.
Team members include:
- Plastic Surgeons
- Dermatologist
- Interventional Radiologist
- Orthopedic Surgeon
- Ear/Nose/Throat Surgeons
- Occupational Therapist
- Nurse
- Administrative Assistant
Vascular malformations
A vascular birthmark (anomaly or lesion) is the result of a problem with growth and development of normal blood and/or lymphatic vessels.
They are categorized as either a vascular tumour or a vascular malformation (VM). A hemangioma the most common vascular tumour. It is not cancerous. It is a problem of cellular hyperplasia (too many normal cells form in a disorganized manner). A vascular malformation is the result of a developmental error within the cells and the cells do not develop as they should do.
Either of these anomalies may appear flat, raised, and coloured in various shades of pink, blue, purple, or red. Despite their similar appearances these anomalies have different treatment plans and expected outcomes.
We must examine the history of the birthmark reported by the patient and family. We also perform a physical examination of the mark and sometimes need to use radiologic testing to diagnose the birthmark. The imaging technique most often used is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Other studies may be performed as needed, such as ultrasounds, or angiograms.
