Treatment of extensive hemangioma of the head in children
Urbanowicz, W.
Folia Medica Cracoviensia 19(3): 355-364
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0015-5616 PMID: 606638 Document Number: 115282
Extensive hemangiomas of the head pose serious cosmetic and functional problems and may even jeopardize the child's life. Considering the importance of these problems and scant literature on them, results at the Clinic of Pediatric Surgery in Cracow [Poland] were evaluated. Methods based on total or partial excision of the lesion, multiple partial resection, ligation of regional blood vessels and arterial trunk were analyzed. Results of angiography of the vascular system of the head were assessed as a diagnostic method in children with hemangiomas. These children with hemangiomas of the head were operated on at the Clinic in the period 1966-1973. The diameter of the lesions exceeded 3 cm, and sometimes the lesion occupied nearly 1/2 of the face and other parts. Diagnostic methods and functional and cosmetic results achieved were analyzed in 74 cases. Stationary hemangiomas without complications may be treated conservatively; all cases requiring treatment should be operated upon. Angiographic diagnosis of the blood vessels of the head is mandatory in large hemangiomas. Other methods of treatment of large hemangiomas of the head are ineffective and attended by complications.