Children can have blood vessel conditions that adults rarely have, such as vascular malformations, haemangiomas (birthmarks made of blood vessels), vascular injuries and abnormal vessels present from birth. Some are harmless and fade with time, while others affect growth, comfort or function.

The team assesses the child gently, uses ultrasound or MRI where needed, and explains the options to parents. Observation, medicines, sclerotherapy and surgery are all considered, with timing chosen around the child's growth. The risks depend on the child's condition and treatment, and some kids need the same procedure done more than once over the years.

Care in this subspecialty includes:

• Assessment of Birthmarks and Malformations: Examination and, where needed, ultrasound or MRI to tell harmless birthmarks from vessel malformations that need treatment.
• Treatment Planning Around Growth: A plan that considers the child's age, the site of the lesion and how it may change as the child grows so that treatment is timed well.
• Injection Treatment or Surgery: Sclerotherapy or surgical removal when a lesion causes pain, swelling, bleeding or loss of function, explained to parents with the risks.
• Long-Term Follow-Up: Regular review as the child grows, because malformations can change, and a plan for any later procedures.