ABSTRACT

Diagnosis of venous malformations has been a limiting factor in VM management. Increased emphasis has been placed on creating a comprehensive classification system to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of this chronic condition. Duplex scanning (DS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are key imaging methods used to characterize and diagnose VMs. DS should be used as the first modality when investigating the presence of a VM, especially for superficial lesions or those in the extremities. A dedicated vascular laboratory with expertise in the diagnosis of vascular anomalies should perform the investigation. Sonographers should be trained specifically in this field and should appreciate the complexity and the range of conditions they may encounter.