Low‐flow vascular malformations of the hand and forearm: a multidisciplinary experience in a tertiary paediatric centre

BACKGROUND: Vascular malformations (VMs) involving the hand and forearm in children provide management challenges due to complex anatomy, indispensable functionality and developmental implications. METHODS: The institution's Vascular Registry was searched for patients with hand and arm VMs, supplemented by chart review of included patients. RESULTS: Twenty-one patients were identified, 52% male, with mean presenting age 5.2 years. Venous malformations predominated (71%), followed by lymphatic-venous (19%), lymphatic (5%) and glomuvenous (5%). Symptoms included pain (76%), swelling (71%), cosmetic concerns (81%), functional compromise (29%) and stiffness (5%). Imaging modality was ultrasound (100%), and magnetic resonance imaging (71%). Treatment included compression (62%), sclerotherapy (62%) and surgery (24%). Post-sclerotherapy ultrasounds showed complete sclerosis (25%), near complete sclerosis (58%) and partial sclerosis (17%). Post-surgery, patients reported improved cosmesis (80%), size (100%), pain (60%) and function (40%). Complications occurred in 24%, including bleeding, digital ischaemia and thrombosis. Mean follow-up was 3.4 years. CONCLUSION: Children with low-flow VMs of the hand and forearm experience significant symptoms and functional limitations. A multidisciplinary approach to management ensures optimal outcomes.