Vascular Imaging

Abstract

Abnormalities of the neck vessels and peripheral and retroperitoneal vasculature are relatively rare in the pediatric population. Nonetheless, increasing numbers of hospitalized children and those with chronic conditions routinely require evaluation of these vessels prior to diagnostic procedures and following therapeutic intervention. In this chapter, the utility of ultrasound in the diagnosis and management of pediatric vascular disorders is reviewed, as well as appropriate transducer selection, patient positioning, and imaging techniques. Pertinent development and anatomy of the arteries and veins of the neck, upper and lower extremities, and retroperitoneum are discussed. The ultrasound features of anatomical variants, congenital anomalies, thrombosis, stenosis, aneurysm/pseudoaneurysm, arterial dissection, and arteriovenous fistula as well as management approach are emphasized.