European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Introduction:
In last few years, thanks to laser technology with minimally invasive approach, there was a
growing need for treatment of oral vascular malformations inside the dental offices.
Generally, the diagnosis of oral vascular malformations is based on clinical history, clinical
examination and imaging exams. Hence the present study was designed to assess Doppler
ultrasound findings of vascular malformations and compare the findings with DSA and to
descry role of Doppler USG in management of vascular malformations.
Methods:
36 patients of clinically suspected vascular malformations were included in our study. USG
B-mode and Doppler study was done for all these patients and the findings were recorded.
USG examination was performed by two well experienced Interventional Radiologists in our
institution. Clinical details and imaging parameters were documented and analyzed. Initial
provisional imaging diagnosis was framed and treatment strategies were further formulated
depending on the diagnostic angiogram findings
Results:
Out of 36 patients included in our study, 8 patients had high flow arteriovenous
malformations, 3 patients had lymphatic malformations and 25 patients had low flow venous
malformations, with DSA being gold standard modality for confirming the diagnosis. We
observed that Doppler USG was able to diagnose all of malformations and accurately classify
them into high flow and low flow malformations. We also observed that certain key
characteristics like early draining vein and presence of nidus was better demonstrated by
conventional angiography which steered the management plan from routine sclerotherapy to
embolization
European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine
ISSN 2515-8260 Volume 9, Issue 4, Winter 2022
160
Conclusion:
We conclude that the USG Doppler has diagnostic accuracy which is similar to conventional
angiography and can be a valuable adjunctive imaging tool in characterizing vascular
malformations and further categorizing the management plan; more so in cases posing with
clinical dilemma. However, further evaluation with MRI/CT may be necessary to in complex
and deep-seated lesions.