Embryological background of congenital vascular malformations

Appropriate knowledge of the anatomy of the vascular system is essential for vascular specialists. Yet seldom is knowledge of the vascular embryology acquired despite the fact that all matured and named vessels originate from precursor, embryonic vessels. Hence, embryological aspects of vascular anatomy are often neglected by clinicians on the basis that they only deal with the normally developed circulation system. Although vascular malformation is rare, its pathogenesis so that vascular embryology is further ignored if not evaded as unknown mystic territory, infrequently and lack of knowledge about vascular embryology may result in errors in diagnosis and/or subsequent management. There is a broad range of defects that may occur in the developing vascular system during the complex process of embryogenesis. Therefore, a good understanding of the embryological background of congenital vascular malformations is essential to ensure best management of abnormal vascular structure. In this chapter we will give an overview of vascular embryology to enhance the readers understanding of this important topic.