Surgical management of vascular tumors and malformations of the head and neck in adults

Vascular tumors and malformations present a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge to many physicians. Because these lesions are rare, few surgeons have enough experience with them other than those practicing in tertiary vascular anomaly treatment centers. Some patients may have been misdiagnosed or mistreated during childhood and present in adult age with either recurrence or with an untreated lesion. Ideally, a multidisciplinary treatment team should be involved to discuss management with the patient including specialists in surgery, interventional radiology, pathology, hematology, genetics, and dermatology. As our understanding of the pathogenesis of these lesions grows, novel therapies are being employed which may decrease the need for surgery. Nevertheless, some lesions need definitive treatment with surgery. Improving understanding of the surgical management of vascular anomalies will improve cosmetic and functional outcomes for patients.

Automated summary

Vascular tumors and malformations present a challenge to most physicians due to their rarity and the need for specialized treatment centers. Misdiagnosis or mistreatment during childhood can lead to recurrence or untreated conditions in adulthood. A multidisciplinary treatment team, including specialists from various fields, is ideal to discuss management options with the patient. While novel therapies may reduce the need for surgery, some lesions still require definitive surgical treatment. Improving understanding of surgical management can lead to better outcomes for patients in terms of both aesthetics and function.