Role of a Multidisciplinary Vascular Anomalies Committee in the Management of Pediatric Patients: A Decade-Long Experience.

BACKGROUND

Vascular anomalies represent a significant clinical challenge in pediatric populations, requiring multidisciplinary management for optimal outcomes.

METHODS

Retrospective descriptive study of patients under 14 years with suspected complex vascular anomalies presented to the VAC between January 2014 and January 2024. Variables analyzed included demographics, lesion characteristics, management decisions, and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 180 patients were included (mean age 5.47 years, 55.6% female). Vascular malformations were most frequent (65.6%), followed by vascular tumors (31.6%). The most common locations were face/ears (20.6%) and lower extremities (18.3%). Initial committee recommendations included performing complementary tests (32.2%), treatment initiation (27.2%), and conservative management (25.6%). Overall, 53.3% of patients required therapeutic intervention. Favorable evolution was observed in 85% of patients: complete resolution (22%), clinical improvement (33%), or disease stabilization (30%).

CONCLUSION

A multidisciplinary VAC serves as a valuable tool for coordinated management of complex vascular anomalies in pediatric patients, contributing to improve diagnostic accuracy and clinical outcomes through collaborative specialist expertise.