Vascular Malformation

A vascular malformation is an abnormal cluster of blood vessels that affects how blood flows through your body. While some are congenital and are never noticed, others can cause pain and swelling. Tate Kirk, MD, in White Plains, New York, treats vascular malformation with precision using minimally invasive procedures. To learn more about vascular malformation and determine whether you’re a candidate for treatment, call the office or request an appointment online today. 

What is a vascular malformation?

A vascular malformation is a group of blood vessels that didn’t develop normally. These can involve veins or arteries and show up anywhere in your body. They are typically present at birth, even though symptoms don’t develop until later in your life, and they don’t go away on their own without treatment. 

Vascular malformations aren’t cancerous, but they can grow or change over time and need to be monitored. Symptoms vary depending on the location and type, but may include:

• Swelling
• Visible discoloration
• Pain and tenderness
• A feeling of heaviness in the affected area
• Skin changes in the area
• Warmth over the area

Dr. Kirk evaluates your symptoms and may use advanced imaging to better understand the malformation to guide your treatment planning.

How are vascular malformations treated?

Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the malformation, as well as your symptoms. When possible, Dr. Kirk recommends minimally invasive, image-guided procedures to target the abnormal vessels directly.

These treatments are excellent at reducing blood flow through the malformation, relieving any discomfort you’re experiencing, and preventing progression. Options may include embolization or sclerotherapy to close off or shrink the abnormal vessels.

During the procedure, you receive medication to help you relax, along with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Dr. Kirk uses imaging guidance to precisely deliver treatment through a thin catheter or needle, then removes the instruments and applies a bandage once complete.

What is recovery like?

Recovery is straightforward and much quicker than if you’d had open surgery. Most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis or require only a short stay so that you can return home the same day.

You may experience mild swelling, bruising, or soreness in the treated area, which improves within 3-4 days. Dr. Kirk will advise when you can return to normal activities, but it’s usually within the week. Following your post-procedure instructions carefully helps ensure you heal quickly and get back to your regular routine.

Schedule an evaluation with Tate Kirk, MD, by phone or request one online today to learn if vascular malformation treatment is right for you.