I. Definition:

A vascular malformations is an abnormal growth of blood vessels that can lead to abnormally enlarged arteries, veins or an abnormal communication between arteries and veins.  There are various types of malformations that include arteriovenous malformation, capillary vascular malformation, and venous vascular malformations.

A venous malformation can occur anywhere in the body and may be deep or superficial, localized or diffused. The jaw, cheek, tongue, lips, and extremities are common sites for a venous malformation. These lesions are soft to the touch, the color disappears and empties as the lesion is compressed.  They may be painful, bleed easily, cause difficulty in wearing shoes or cloths, and may be cosmetically unpleasing.  

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