Embolization of vascular tumors of the head and neck

Neuroimaging Clin N Am. 2009 May;19(2):181-98, Table of Contents. doi: 10.1016/j.nic.2009.01.008.

Abstract

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas and paragangliomas are the most common hypervascular tumors of the head and neck that require embolization as an adjunct to surgery. A detailed understanding of the functional vascular anatomy of the external carotid artery is necessary for safe and effective endovascular therapy. Embolization, using a transarterial technique and particulate agents, a direct puncture technique and liquid embolic agents, or both techniques may allow for complete devascularization of hypervascular tumors of the head and neck. Effective embolization of these tumors results in a significant reduction of blood loss during surgery and allows for complete resection of the tumors. Use of meticulous technique and a thorough knowledge of functional anatomy of the head and neck vasculature are essential.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Embolization, Therapeutic / methods*
  • Embolization, Therapeutic / trends*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms, Vascular Tissue / therapy*
  • Radiology, Interventional / trends*