Venous malformations of the head and neck: a diagnostic approach and a proposed management approach based on clinical, radiological, and histopathology findings

Head Neck. 2014 Jul;36(7):1052-7. doi: 10.1002/hed.23407. Epub 2013 Oct 4.

Abstract

Background: There is no easy road map for venous malformations (VMs) of the head and neck according to which treatment modality can be chosen. The purpose of this study was to identify different types of VMs of the head and neck based on clinical, histopathology, MRI, and venography findings that help in specification of different treatment modalities.

Methods: Sixty-nine patients with VMs of the head and neck were included in this study.

Results and conclusion: Our results proposed a diagnostic approach for VMs of the head and neck. MRI, venography, and clinical examination had important impact in decision-making, whereas histopathology had no impact. A management approach has been suggested for each type and its subtypes.

Keywords: hamartoma; head and neck; vascular anomaly; venous malformations.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Contrast Media
  • Face / blood supply*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography
  • Male
  • Neck / blood supply*
  • Phlebography
  • Vascular Malformations / diagnosis*
  • Vascular Malformations / therapy
  • Veins / abnormalities
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Contrast Media