Mental Health Evaluation in Patients with Vascular Malformations

Objective: Patients with vascular anomalies can have significant disfigurement, poor quality of life, and chronic pain, all of which can affect their mental well-being. Although most of the multidisciplinary care is focused on the medical and surgical treatment of the vascular anomaly, the mental health of this population needs to be evaluated and addressed. The objective of this study is to characterize the prevalence and spectrum of psychological conditions among patients presenting to a vascular anomaly clinic. Methods: This is an institutional review board-approved, single-institution retrospective study of patients with a vascular anomaly seen in a multidisciplinary vascular anomalies clinic between July 2020 and June 2023. All patients seen by the team psychologist were included, and assessment was obtained. Results: Fifty-five patients were included. The median age was 15 years (range: 3–50), with 42 females and 13 males. Diagnosis included the following: angiokeratoma (2), venous (19), Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome (8), arteriovenous malformation (5), combined (10), lymphatic (6), and capillary (5). Fourteen of 55 (25.4%) patients reported currently having a mental health diagnosis; 92.9% of those patients were diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression, 64% reported chronic pain, and 85% received mental health treatment. Conclusion: Patients with vascular anomalies often face mental health concerns, including anxiety/depression and chronic pain. Integrating a psychologist into the multidisciplinary team may enhance care and support a more comprehensive healthcare approach. Level of evidence: Level 4.