An Approach to the Management of Common Vascular Malformations of the Trunk

Vascular anomalies can be classified into two unique groups, hemangiomas and vascular malformations, based on their endothelial properties. The present review will focus on the four most common vascular malformations of the trunk presenting to the Plastic Surgeon: capillary malformations, lymphatic malformations, venous malformations, and arterovenous malformations. We define the trunk as chest, abdomen and back; the principles of breast reconstruction will not be discussed as they have been extensively covered in other publications. Diagnostic and therapeutic modalities will be discussed with pertinent case examples.