Résumé
The International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA) recently adopted a classification scheme, clearly separating vascular tumours (hemangiomas of different types) from vascular malformations, which are inborn defects of vascular morphogenesis. Vascular malformations include venous malformations, which are the most common congenital vascular malformation, lymphatic, capillary and arteriovenous malformations. They present as an isolated or as a mixed lesion combined with other vascular malformations. Therefore, the diagnosis of VM should include an appropriate work-up, to not only confirm and characterize the vascular malformation as either extratruncular or truncular but also to diagnose or exclude the presence of other malformations. The diagnosis of vascular malformation can be made safely using non-invasive to minimally invasive studies (US, MRI), which can also distinguish vascular malformation from infantile haemangioma and characterize the type of vascular malformation. Invasive studies, such as venography and arteriography, are generally reserved for therapeutic planning and diagnosis of more severe vascular malformations. The work-up of vascular malformations should include a complete assessment of the extent and severity of the lesion. In addition, its embryologic origin, as well as its haemodynamic characteristics and secondary effects should also be determined. A multidisciplinary approach that utilizes both traditional medical and surgical therapy and endovascular therapy is now the standard of care.