Vascular malformations

Arteriovenous malformations represent a kind of short-circuit connection between arteries and veins. These changes appear as reddened and overheated areas with very strong blood flow. Typical symptoms are bleeding, swelling or pain, and infections can also occur in some cases. Depending on the location of the malformation, individual symptoms such as visual disturbances, nasal breathing difficulties, shortness of breath or similar can occur. The increased blood volume that the heart has to cope with can also lead to heart failure (cardiac insufficiency).

Venous malformations consist of blood vessels that have a very thin wall and do not have the typical structure of a normal vein. These malformations are usually recognisable as a bluish discolouration and appear as swelling of the skin or mucous membrane. These changes usually grow over a longer period of time. They cause pain and are perceived as annoying or ugly. Depending on the area affected, they can also cause swallowing difficulties, for example. 

Diseases of the lymphatic vessels in which defects have occurred in lymphatic structures. They are divided into microcystic and macrocystic lesions. They are characterised by swelling, which can occur almost anywhere on the body. Typically, this leads to leakage of lymph fluid or infections. Excessive growth of involved bone may also occur.

Combinations of the described malformations can also occur, which then show a very different picture of symptoms.

Depending on the type and severity of the malformation, treatment must always be planned individually for each patient. In addition to surgical procedures, interventional radiological methods (embolisation and sclerotherapy) and laser therapy are also available. This involves targeted interventions on the diseased tissue in order to positively influence the course of the disease. Interdisciplinary co-operation with several clinics is at the forefront of therapy planning in order to create an optimal therapy concept for you or your child.