Contemporary management of vascular malformations.

PURPOSE: To review the literature on vascular malformations and to clarify their diagnosis, clinical presentation, and treatment options. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The authors reviewed the current literature on vascular malformations looking for more innovative and credited diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols. RESULTS: The review is divided in 4 sections (capillary, venous, arteriovenous, and lymphatic malformations). In each section, the clinical presentation, radiologic features, and treatment options for each kind of vascular malformation are described. The experience and results of the authors also are presented. CONCLUSIONS: Vascular malformations are a heterogeneous group of diseases. Each type of malformation has unique features that make it largely different from the others. Only a clear and correct diagnosis can lead to optimal results.