Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 1, 2025

Comprehensive Endovascular and Open Surgical Management of Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations
Published on: October 20, 2017
Interventional Treatment Options in Children with Extracranial Vascular Malformations
Vanessa F Schmidt1, Martin Olivieri2, Beate Häberle3
1Department of Radiology, Ludwig Maximilian University Hospital, Munich, München, Germany.
Insights
Extracranial vascular malformations in children require specialized, long-term management. This review details their presentation and interventional treatment, noting pediatric-specific considerations.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Pediatric Interventional Radiology
- Rare Diseases
Background:
- Extracranial vascular malformations are rare, complex diseases affecting arteries, capillaries, veins, and lymphatics.
- The International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) classification aids therapeutic decisions.
- Pediatric cases present unique challenges due to growth and long-term disease impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of pediatric extracranial vascular malformations.
- To emphasize the specific interventional treatment options available for children.
- To highlight pediatric dose limitations and potential side effects of procedures.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations of venous, lymphatic, and arteriovenous malformations in children.
- Analysis of interventional treatment strategies, including sclerotherapy and embolization.
- Examination of pediatric-specific procedural nuances and safety profiles.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of clinical manifestations across different vascular malformation types in pediatric patients.
- Discussion of endovascular techniques tailored for children.
- Identification of key differences in pediatric versus adult treatment approaches.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of pediatric vascular malformations necessitates a long-term strategy.
- Interventional treatment requires careful consideration of pediatric-specific dose limits and side effects.
- Adherence to ISSVA guidelines is crucial for optimal therapeutic outcomes in children.
Abstract:
Extracranial vascular malformations vary greatly and belong to the complex field of orphan diseases and can involve all segments of the vascular tree: arteries, capillaries, and veins, and similarly the lymphatic system. The classification according to the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) represents an important guidance for selecting appropriate therapy. Although many of the principles of endovascular treatment, including image-guided sclerotherapy and embolization, are similar in adult and pediatric practice, there are some distinct differences regarding the treatment of vascular malformations of children. Thus, it is crucial to involve longer-term plan about managing these chronic diseases and their impact on a growing child. This review provides a detailed overview over the clinical presentation of venous, lymphatic, and arteriovenous malformations in children and emphasizes the specifics of their interventional treatment options, including distinct pediatric dose limitations and procedure-related side effects.
Related Concept Videos
Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care

