Vascular Diagnosis in the Pediatric Patient.

Imaging is an important component for vascular diagnoses in pediatric patients, however, it is important to minimize radiation exposure in children. The pediatric population is up to 10 times more sensitive to the effects of radiation than adults due to increased tissue radiosensitivity of their developing organs and tissues, and they have a longer lifespan in which the effects can manifest. In general, the choice of imaging modality for vascular diseases depends on individual patient needs, balancing diagnostic accuracy with potential risks and limitations. A thorough understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of each technique is essential for clinicians to make informed decisions regarding diagnosis and monitoring. This manuscript will discuss some important aspects regarding imaging of vascular diagnoses in pediatric patients including preoperative imaging for access and vascular lesions, vascular malformations, the role of angiography, and diagnosis and monitoring of pediatric brain vascular diseases.