Resection of an oropharyngeal venous malformation

Abstract

BackgroundVenous malformations (VMs) are congenital vascular lesions caused by enlarged and ectatic venous channels. Current methods of treatment for VMs involve a combination of sclerotherapy, laser therapy, and surgical resection. While sclerotherapy remains the most commonly used treatment for small VMs, surgery remains an important tool for isolated VMs or larger VMs with higher flow due to potential local and systemic side effects associated with the use of certain sclerosing agents. Methods/resultsHere we present a case of a patient with a naso- and oropharyngeal venous malformation which was successfully resected with endoscopic-assisted transoral surgery. ConclusionsThis is a low-fingerprint technique to tumors of the oropharynx with excellent visualization and maneuverability in cases where TORS is not an option. This technique does not require palate splitting or excessive retraction, allows multiple surgeons to work simultaneously, and is associated with significantly lower morbidity than transcervical techniques. Level of evidenceN/A.