Percutaneous Sclerotherapy for Lymphangioma and Soft-Tissue Venous Malformation Located in the Maxillofacial Region in Children and Young Adults

Abstract

To demonstrate that percutaneous sclerotherapy for lymphangioma using a new fibro-sing agent (OK-432) and for soft-tissue venous malformation with alcoholization can improve management of these congenital vascular abnormalities. Between February 2003 and November 2005 five patients with lymphangioma, ranging in age from 23 months to 18 years (mean age ? 9 years) and four patients with soft-tissue venous malformation, raging in age from 25 months to 18 years (mean age = 11 years) underwent percutaneous sclerotherapy. Ultrasound Computed tomography and/or Magnetic Resonance imaging were performed beforehand to evaluate the anatomic boundaries of the malformation. General anesthesia is mandatory for children under three years. Direct puncture of the mass with a 23-gauge venous infusion set (butterfly) was performed by means of palpation alone or with ultrasonographic guidance using OK-432 PICIBANIL (0.1–0.2 mg dilute in 10 ml normal saline) for lymphangioma and alcohol in venous malformation. The volume of sclerosing solution varied from 0.2 to 15 ml per injection course. Processing time was less than 20 minutes. Swelling of lesion, pain, local inflammatory reactions and mild fever (37.5°-39°) in lymphangioma, were constant findings after sclerotherapy. Satisfactory results (when the regression was estimated to be more than 50% of the initial volume; negative in inspection, but positive in palpation and imaging study) were obtained in four patients with head and neck lymphangioma. One patient was completely cured with an excellent (when there was a complete regression of malformations; negative in inspection, palpation and imaging study) result. All patients with soft-tissue venous malformation were satisfied with the results. In conclusion, in consideration of its low cost, rare complications and good results, we strongly recommend percutaneous sclerotherapy in the treatment of head and neck lymphangioma and soft-tissue venous malformation in children.