Large arteriovenous malformations of the face: aesthetic results with recurrence control

Our Experience in the Surgical Management of Arterio-Venous Malformations of the head and neck

Introduction

Vascular anomalies comprise a diverse group of abnormalities in blood vessel morphogenesis that usually occur prenatally. Arterio-venous malformations (AVMs) are rare congenital vascular lesions accounting for 1.5% of all vascular anomalies, with 50% of them occur in the oral and maxillo-facial regions. Treatment of large, complex vascular lesions is a serious challenge for patients and surgeons because it can cause disfigurement and massive haemorrhage, which may be spontaneous or the result of surgical intervention. Our study aimed to demonstrate surgical management of massive AVMs of the head and neck.

Method

This retrospective study shows the treatment outcomes of 28 patients with massive maxillo-facial vascular malformations, who presented to our department for treatment from 1 January 2015 to 31 July 2022.

Results

Twenty-eight patients with a mean age of 17.32 ± 12.21 years (women: 15, men: 13) were enrolled in the study. Diagnosis included extra cranial AVMs of the head and neck region. Treatment modalities, in isolation or combination, included angioembolisation procedure, sclerotherapy, and surgery.

Conclusion

Management of AVMs is challenging owing to the replacement of normal tissue by the diseased ones and the high rate of recurrence. Hence, multi-modal approaches are needed for the effective restoration of tissues.

Management of scalp arteriovenous malformations: a rising trend towards percutaneous direct puncture embolization technique-our experience

BACKGROUND

Scalp arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), or cirsoid aneurysms of the scalp, usually present with troublesome symptoms and cosmetic disfigurement. Endovascular/percutaneous embolization has evolved as a sole treatment method or adjunct to surgical excision in the management of scalp AVMs with an excellent outcome.

PURPOSE

To discuss minimally invasive techniques for treating scalp AVMs as well as to highlight the role of embolization before surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This is a retrospective study of 50 patients with scalp AVM who underwent embolization (percutaneous/endovascular) during 2010-2019 at a tertiary care center. n-butyl cyanoacrylate (n-BCA) was used as an embolizing agent in all the cases and the patients were followed up at three- and six-month intervals with Doppler evaluation.

RESULTS

A total of 50 patients were included in the study. The occipital region was the most common location; 82% were Schobinger class II lesions and 18% were class III lesions. Thirteen patients had small-sized AVMs and 37 patients had large-sized AVMs. Post-embolization surgery was performed in 36 patients. Of the patients, 28 underwent percutaneous embolization, 20 underwent endovascular embolization, and two underwent both to achieve complete embolization of the lesion. The number of percutaneous procedures increased in the latter half of the study period as the safety and efficacy of the technique were established. No major complications were seen in this study.

CONCLUSION

Embolization of scalp AVMs is a safe and effective technique and can be used in isolation for small lesions and as an adjunct procedure to surgery for large-sized lesions.

Regulating Microvascular Free Flaps Reconstruction in “Schobinger Stage 4” Arteriovenous Malformations of Face

Objectives Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are high-flow, aggressive lesions that cause systemic effects and may pose a risk to life. These lesions are difficult to treat as they have a tendency to recur aggressively after excision or embolization. So, it requires a regulating free flap with robust vascular flow averting the postexcisional ischemia-induced collateralization, parasitization, and recruitment of neovessels from the surrounding mesenchyme—a phenomenon precipitating and perpetuating the recurrence of AVM.

Materials and Methods Sixteen patients (12 males and 4 females) with AVMs Schobinger type 4 involving face were treated from March 2015 to March 2021 with various free flaps: three free rectus abdominis flaps, one free radial forearm flap, and twelve free anterolateral thigh flaps were used for reconstruction following the wide local excision of Schobinger type 4 facial AVM. The records of these patients were analyzed retrospectively. The average follow-up period was 18.5 months. The functional and aesthetic outcomes were analyzed with institutional assessment scores.

Results The average size of the flap harvested was 113.43 cm2. Fourteen patients (87.5%) had good-to-excellent score (p = 0.035) with institutional aesthetic and functional assessment system. The remaining two patients (12.5%) had only fair results. There was no recurrence (0%) in the free flap group versus 64% recurrence in the pedicled flap and skin grafting groups (p = 0.035).

Conclusion Free flaps with their robust and homogenized blood supply provide a good avenue for void filling and an excellent regulating effect in inhibiting any locoregional recurrences of AVMs

Embolization and sclerotherapy of maxillofacial arteriovenous malformations with the use of fibrin glue combined with pingyangmycin

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to document the results of using fibrin glue (FG) combined with pingyangmycin (PYM) for the embolism and sclerotherapy of maxillofacial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).

STUDY DESIGN

We reviewed the associated clinical data from December 2012 to June 2017 for 25 patients with maxillofacial AVMs. The major treatment method was direct percutaneous puncture and injection of FG combined with PYM. Treatment outcomes were assessed through physical examination, Doppler ultrasonography, computed tomography, and 3-dimensional computed tomography angiography scans. Follow-up time ranged from 12 months to 3 years after the last treatment (mean 21 months).

RESULTS

Of the 25 lesions, 80% showed greater than 90% reduction, 12% showed greater than 75% reduction, and 8% showed greater than 50% reduction. Superficial skin necrosis or mucous ulcer occurred in 3 patients and healed without intervention. Regrowth was observed in 3 patients with extensive lesions involving multiple anatomic regions.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that embolization and sclerotherapy with the use of FG combined with PYM are safe and effective for the treatment of small- to medium-sized, locally dilated maxillofacial AVMs. For AVMs involving multiple anatomic regions, combined application of this approach with other options should be considered.

Method for Safely Excising a Large Head and Neck Arteriovenous Malformation in the Hybrid Operating Room

Large head and neck arteriovenous malformations are notoriously difficult to manage given their location and propensity for extreme hemorrhage. We propose a unique approach utilizing a Hyperform balloon and percutaneous Surgiflo sclerotherapy to provide intraoperative hemostatic stability during the excision of a left-sided scalp arteriovenous malformation. In a hybrid operating room a microcatheter balloon was fed into the left external carotid artery for occlusion of the malformation's main blood supply, and subsequently followed with digital subtraction angiography guided sclerotherapy of selective vessels. A split thickness graft was used to reconstruct the site of excision. This method offered optimal hemostatic control with a blood loss less than 120 cc. Our approach may offer safety advantages over traditional modalities and allow resection of head and neck lesions previously thought to be inoperable.

Clinical Course of Extracranial Arteriovenous Malformations

PURPOSE

Despite many advances in the knowledge of vascular malformations, extracranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) remain an enigma and are usually misdiagnosed and mismanaged due to their associated rare morbidity. This study aimed to describe the clinical course and emphasize the progressive nature of AVMs through a retrospective study of 446 patients.

METHODS

Patients with cutaneous and soft-tissue AVMs presenting to our Vascular Anomalies Center between March 2011 and March 2017 were reviewed. Medical records were examined for disease course, age at first presentation at our institution, distributions and locations of lesions, clinical staging, progression, and previous treatments. Progression was defined as advancement to a higher Schobinger stage from a lower stage.

RESULTS

A total of 446 patients (mean age, 25.6 ± 14.0 years) were enrolled in this study, including 232 (52.0%) males (gender ratio, 1.08:1). Arteriovenous malformations lesions in 76.7% (342/446) of the patients were located in the head and neck. Children with Stage I AVMs had a 41.9% risk of progression before adolescence and an 80.0% risk of progression before adulthood. Nearly all patients (96.2%) showed progression in adulthood. Diffuse lesions were more likely to progress than localized lesions (P < 0.05) in childhood and adolescence. Lesions in the head and neck regions were less likely to progress than those in other regions in childhood (P = 0.005). A total of 216 (48.4%) patients had undergone previous treatments. Among these patients, bleomycin showed an unintentional positive effect in the treatment of AVMs.

CONCLUSIONS

Extracranial AVMs have a continuously progressive nature. A full understanding regarding the progressive course of AVMs can lead patients and physicians to attach importance to early diagnosis and management. Meanwhile exploring innovative treatments should be focused in the future to prevent potential destructive progression.

Soft Tissue Reconstruction and Facial Reanimation With Bilateral Latissimus Dorsi Flaps After Extensive Resection of Head and Neck Arteriovenous Malformation: A Case Report

We report a rare case of a 37-year-old man who presented with a huge arteriovenous malformation in the head and neck region. After resection, the 30 × 25 cm defect was reconstructed with a preexpanded musculocutaneous latissimus dorsi flap. The facial nerve had to be sacrificed during the resection, and smile reanimation was restored in a second operation with the contralateral latissimus muscle flap. A 15-cm length of thoracodorsal nerve was dissected and was anastomosed to the contralateral zygomatic branch in a single stage. He recovered well without any significant complications. At 6 years follow-up, there was no further growth of the arteriovenous malformation, and he had a spontaneous smile.

Medical Management of Vascular Anomalies

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This chapter will summarize the most recent literature regarding the current state of medical treatment for vascular anomalies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Research into the biology of these anomalies has strengthened our understanding of each anomaly and has helped to pave the way for more tailored treatment options involving molecular and/or genetic targets.

SUMMARY

While there is still a role for surgical intervention, medical therapies that target the etiology of vascular anomalies may represent an alternative or adjunctive approach in the management of these lesions.

Management of vascular anomalies: Review of institutional management algorithm

Introduction:

Vascular anomalies are congenital lesions broadly categorised into vascular tumour (haemangiomas) and vascular dysmorphogenesis (vascular malformation). The management of these difficult problems has lately been simplified by the biological classification and multidisciplinary approach. To standardise the treatment protocol, an algorithm has been devised. The study aims to validate the algorithm in terms of its utility and presents our experience in managing vascular anomalies.

Materials and Methods:

The biological classification of Mulliken and Glowacki was followed. A detailed algorithm for management of vascular anomalies has been devised in the department. The protocol is being practiced by us since the past two decades. The data regarding the types of lesions and treatment modality used were maintained.

Results and Conclusion:

This study was conducted from 2002 to 2012. A total of 784 cases of vascular anomalies were included in the study of which 196 were haemangiomas and 588 were vascular malformations. The algorithmic approach has brought an element of much-needed objectivity in the management of vascular anomalies. This has helped us to define the management of particular lesion considering its pathology, extent and aesthetic and functional consequences of ablation to a certain extent.

Novel Technique Using Cyanoacrylate and Local Hemostatic Agents in the Management of High-Risk Exodontia Bleeding in a Patient With a Large Facial Arteriovenous Malformation

PURPOSE

This report describes a case of a 32-year-old woman who had been diagnosed with a facial arteriovenous malformation during childhood. Because this patient possessed a major risk of perioperative hemorrhage, the use of several local hemostatic measures was thoroughly explored before routine exodontia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Selective embolization of the right superior thyroid artery was performed intraoperatively and a novel hemostatic technique using a combination of a packing of Gelfoam wrapped in Surgicel was placed within the extraction sites and sealed with SwiftSet.

RESULTS

Local hemostasis was achieved with a novel technique using a combination of cyanoacrylate and local hemostatic agents despite aggressive hemorrhaging after routine exodontia.

CONCLUSION

By exploiting the local properties of these agents, local hemostasis can be achieved with this novel technique even in the most challenging cases of vascular anomalies.

Cyanoacrylate Adhesive as an Alternative Tool for Membrane Fixation in Guided Tissue Regeneration

AIM

To report a well succeeded use of cyanoacrylate adhesive for fixating a resorbable membrane during a guided tissue regeneration procedure (GTR).

BACKGROUND

The immobilization of membranes in GTR is essential for establishing proper environment for cell differentiation and tissue regeneration. However, some membranes are very difficult to be kept in position by sutures and its fixation by mini screws or pins may be time consuming and expensive.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 47-year-old woman presenting a vertical bone defect at the palatal aspect of the left central incisor was treated by GTR using particulate autogenous bone graft associated to a collagen membrane. The membrane was glued to the bone surrounding the defect and to the tooth surface with cyanoacrylate adhesive. The postoperative period was uneventful and 4 years later, excellent results in terms of radiographic filling of the defect and reduction of the probing depth were seen. For illustrative purposes, histological findings obtained during a previous experiment in calvaria of guinea pigs is shown, characterizing a foreign body granuloma and proving that the cyanoacrylate adhesive is a safe tool in GTR.

CONCLUSION

The use of a membrane glued with cyanoacrylate to immobilize membranes in GTR is viable and safe from both technical and biological standpoints and may be advantageous for clinical and research purposes.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The alternative method for membrane fixation shown in this case report can contribute to simplify the technique in GTR procedures.

Demineralization of the contacting surfaces in autologous onlay bone grafts improves bone formation and bone consolidation

BACKGROUND

Autologous bone grafts are usually well consolidated after 4 to 5 months but can be incompletely interlocked with the native bone. This study investigated the effect of acid demineralization of the graft-bed interface on graft consolidation.

METHODS

Onlay bone grafts were performed on the calvaria of 36 guinea pigs. Half of the animals had the graft-bed contacting surfaces demineralized with 50% citric acid (pH 1.0) for 3 minutes (test group). The other half received no demineralization (control group). The bone grafts were immobilized by a resorbable membrane glued to the recipient bed with cyanoacrylate. After 7, 30, and 90 days, specimens (n = 6) were obtained for light microscopy. Data from qualitative analysis and computerized histomorphometry were statistically processed at a significance level of 5%.

RESULTS

Osteogenesis was not seen at the interface after 7 days. After 30 days, the test group showed 34.39% ± 13.4% of the interface area filled with mineralized tissue, compared to 17.14% ± 8.6% in the control group (P = 0.026). After 90 days, the mean percentages of mineralized tissue at the interface in the test and control specimens were 54.00% ± 11.23% and 38.65% ± 7.76% (P = 0.041), respectively. Within groups, a higher percentage of the area filled with mineralized tissue was seen at 90 days compared to 30 days (P = 0.004 for control and 0.041 for test).

CONCLUSIONS

Demineralization of the contacting surfaces between autologous bone graft and bone bed improved new bone formation and bone consolidation. These data need to be confirmed in humans.

Head and neck arteriovenous malformations: results of ethanol sclerotherapy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Peripheral AVM is a locally aggressive disease with a high tendency to recur; its treatment is complex, especially in the anatomically delicate head and neck area. Here, we report results of ethanol sclerotherapy for head and neck AVM and discuss its potential use for peripheral AVM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively assessed degree of AVM eradication, complications, and clinical or imaging signs of recurrence for 19 patients treated with ethanol sclerotherapy for head and neck AVM (1 intraosseous, 18 soft-tissue AVMs).

RESULTS

Of the 19 patients, 11 had complete eradication of arteriovenous shunting at DSA, with 1 recurrence (mean follow-up 15 months), and for 7 patients, treatment is ongoing. During 59 treatment sessions, 12 patients experienced 14 complications, 1 leading to permanent functional damage.

CONCLUSIONS

Ethanol sclerotherapy has potential for complete eradication of head and neck AVM with low recurrence within the first year after completion of treatment. Complete eradication may require several treatment sessions during which complications should be minimized with careful techniques.

Hemangiomas and vascular malformations: current theory and management

Vascular anomalies are a heterogeneous group of congenital blood vessel disorders more typically referred to as birthmarks. Subcategorized into vascular tumors and malformations, each anomaly is characterized by specific morphology, pathophysiology, clinical behavior, and management approach. Hemangiomas are the most common vascular tumor. Lymphatic, capillary, venous, and arteriovenous malformations make up the majority of vascular malformations. This paper reviews current theory and practice in the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of these more common vascular anomalies.

Interstitial PDT for vascular anomalies

INTRODUCTION

Photodynamic therapy is a proven therapeutic modality in the management of variety of pathologies involving the human body. Our aim in this clinical study is to prospectively evaluate the outcome following interstitial photodynamic therapy for patients with vascular anomalies. Patients' reports on quality of life with clinical and radiological evaluation were the main end point parameters used to assess the outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-three patients were referred to the UCLH Head and Neck Centre for treatment of vascular anomalies of the head and neck, including: infantile and congenital haemangiomas, venous, lymphatic and arteriovenous malformations. After multidisciplinary discussion, all patients underwent interstitial photodynamic therapy under general anaesthesia, using 0.15 mg/kg mTHPC as the photosensitising agent. Following treatment, patients were followed-up for a mean of 21 months.

RESULTS

Fifteen out of nineteen patients who presented with long-term pain reported improvement after treatment. Also, 7/8 reported significant reduction of bleeding related to their vascular anomaly. Improvement of swelling was reported by 28/35 patients; while reduction of infection episodes was evident in 8/11 patients and 31/36 reported reduction in the disfigurement caused by their pathology. Significant reduction of swallowing problems was reported in 9/12 patients, and breathing problems in 7/9 patients. Clinical assessment showed that half of the patients had 'good response' to the treatment. Moderate clinical response was reported by 13 (30.2%) patients. Radiological assessment comparing imaging 6-week post-PDT to the baseline showed moderate response in 11 (25.6%) patients and significant response in 15 (34.9%) patients.

CONCLUSION

This study on 43 patients with vascular anomalies undergoing interstitial photodynamic therapy provided evidence that PDT is a successful modality in the management of these pathologies that are resistant to conventional modalities, with minimal side effects.

Safety and clinical efficacy of Onyx for embolization of extracranial head and neck vascular anomalies

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Onyx was developed for embolization of central nervous system AVMs but is increasingly used extracranially because of its unique physical properties. We review our experience and results with the use of Onyx for the treatment of fast-flow extracranial vascular lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed clinical and imaging records of 22 patients who underwent 71 extracranial embolizations from March 2007 through January 2010. The diagnoses were the following: cervicofacial AVM (n = 18), traumatic fistula (n = 3), and vessel laceration (n = 1). In 62 of 71 procedures (87%), Onyx was the sole embolic agent; it was delivered transarterially in 67/71 and percutaneously in 4/71 procedures. Clinical goals included amelioration of pain and control of bleeding. The clinical efficacy of embolization was judged by symptom control, and adverse events were assessed by clinical examination and history, both postembolization and 4 weeks postprocedure.

RESULTS

Cessation of acute bleeding was achieved in 13/14 cases, with 1 case of immediate recurrent massive epistaxis prompting reintubation and further embolization. Control of subacute bleeding episodes and pain was achieved for all patients. Following staged embolization, 7 patients underwent surgical resection without significant blood loss. Surgeons reported high satisfaction with the intraoperative handling properties of Onyx. Transient swelling, local tenderness, or numbness was encountered after 7 procedures. There were no stuck catheters, vessel dissections, or vessel ruptures and no skin discoloration.

CONCLUSIONS

Staged Onyx embolization was clinically efficacious in managing extracranial fast-flow vascular malformations and lesions, with low associated morbidity.

Current concepts in the classification, diagnosis and treatment of vascular anomalies

Patients with extended vascular anomalies may suffer from significant aesthetic and functional impairment and represent a challenge to therapeutic planning, which is best met by an interdisciplinary concept. In agreement with the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies (ISSVA), vascular lesions are classified into haemangiomas as proliferating endothelial tumours on the one hand and congenital vascular malformations on the other. According to the preponderant vascular channels and hemodynamic characteristics, malformations are subdivided into low flow (venous, lymphatic and capillary) lesions and high-flow malformations. Diagnostic imaging should be targeted at the specific structural and functional informations required for treatment planning. The imaging modality of choice to provide these informations is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) supplemented by magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) with high spatial and temporal resolution. Treatment indications for haemangiomas depend on the proliferative behaviour of the lesion and comprise beta-blockers in order to induce involution as well as cryotherapy, laser and open surgery. Interventional radiological procedures have evolved as an essential element in an interdisciplinary treatment plan for vascular malformations and include percutaneous sclerotherapy with ethanol and OK-432 for venous and lymphatic malformations and transarterial embolization for high-flow lesions.

Clinical course of arteriovenous malformations of the head and neck: A case series

Objective: To demonstrate, in a case series, the relentless growth of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) of the head and neck and the importance of their vigilant management within the context of a modified staging system.

Study Design: Retrospective review.

Setting: Tertiary care institution, Vascular Anomalies Center.

Subjects and Methods: Subjects were patients with advanced AVMs presenting to our Vascular Anomalies Center. Medical records were examined for age at first diagnosis, disease course, prior treatments, age at presentation, management, therapeutic outcomes, stage of disease, and impact on quality of life. Early patient photographs were evaluated.

Results: Ten patients (ages 13-46 yrs) with extensive cervicofacial AVMs were examined. Progressive growth, worsening symptoms, and graduated disease stage were universally experienced by each patient, as evident by serial photographs, over a course of many years. Each patient presented to our institution with massive lesions, bleeding, pain, and facial destruction. Prior embolization and/or surgery had been performed in all but one patient. Every patient had been previously told that their AVMs were incurable or that treatment options were exhausted. The patients were subsequently treated at our institution with surgical resection with or without preoperative embolization. Disease control, symptom improvement, and enhanced daily functioning were attained in each patient.

Conclusion: The natural course of AVMs is progressive, invasive, and destructive. Vigilant observation, early treatment, and radical therapy are necessary for AVMs of the head and neck.

Manifestation einer arteriovenösen Malformation nach Zahnextraktion

CASE REPORT

We report on the case of a 31-year old female presenting a massive bleeding during extraction of left lower wisdom tooth, which could be managed by local compression. In the following transfemoral angiography an extensive arteriovenous malformation (avm) in the pterygomandibular space with osseous infiltration was diagnosed and embolised during the same session. After the acute stage the malformation could be controlled by repeated embolisation, the wound being closed by use of a transposition flap.

CONCLUSIONS

Although arteriovenous malformations of the head and neck are rare, they can manifest with dramatic bleeding complications during surgical interventions. A thrill on palpation and auscultation may also refer to the existence of such a vascular lesion. An av-malformation may be stimulated by hormonal changes during puberty or pregnancy as well as by local trauma. Colour coded duplex sonography, magnetic resonance imaging and transfemoral angiography are suitable diagnostic tools. The treatment of choice is superselective embolisation followed by surgical resection of the vascular nidus, which should be performed by under an interdisciplinary approach.

Cyanoacrylate adhesive for closing sinus membrane perforations during sinus lifts

INTRODUCTION

Sinus lift procedures depend greatly on fragile structures and anatomical variations. The procedure may cause sinus membrane perforations, which can lead to graft infection and early failure.

AIM

To assess the efficacy of cyanoacrylate adhesive in the management of large perforations of the maxillary sinus membrane during sinus lifts.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Six rabbits were used in the study. Sinus membrane perforations (about 1.5 cm in length) were repaired with cyanoacrylate adhesive on one side of the maxillary sinus. On the contralateral side, an identical laceration was not repaired. Histological evaluation was performed 2 weeks after the operation.

RESULTS

Wounds repaired with cyanoacrylate adhesive showed newly formed continuous epithelium across the previous perforation site and there was sinusitis on the contralateral side.

CONCLUSION

These results support the clinical use of cyanoacrylate adhesive for repairing sinus membrane perforations.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Arising from an Arteriovenous Malformation of the Scalp

We present the case of a 70-year-old man with a congenital scalp lesion consistent with an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) which over the last 3 years had developed ulcerative changes and bleeding in the central aspect that was a biopsy proven squamous cell carcinoma (SCCA). To control hemorrhage during surgery, a radiologist performed selective embolization of major feeding arteries in the lesion three days before the surgery. After total resection of the lesion, a scalp reconstruction was performed by using a free latissimus muscle flap and skin graft. As a result, bleeding was well controlled, the AVM and SCCA were totally resected, and satisfactory aesthetic results were obtained. This appears to be the first description of a SCCA arising from a chronic AVM. This is suggestive of a possible Marjolin's ulcer from a chronic wound bed.

Management of an arteriovenous malformation

Arteriovenous malformations represent a unique challenge to the facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Unlike other vascular anomalies, such as hemangiomas or capillary vascular malformations (or port-wine stains), true arteriovenous malformations are rare aberrations in vascular morphogenesis. Their rarity and high propensity toward bleeding and recurrence combined with the potential for life-threatening rupture may make the occasional surgeon who dares to resect these lesions rightfully less than intrepid in his endeavor.

Delayed presentation of pseudoaneurysm after Le Fort I osteotomy

Although the osteotome is positioned in close vicinity to the maxillary artery and its branches during ptergomaxillary separation in a Le Fort I osteotomy, postoperative complications from vascular injuries are rare. The following report describes an unusual occurrence of a maxillary artery pseudoaneurysm following a Le Fort I and bilateral sagittal-split osteotomies for correction of mandibular and maxillary asymmetries in a patient with Goldenhar syndrome. This was recognized 8 months after the procedure when the patient developed acute facial swelling and required an emergent angiogram for uncontrolled bleeding. Vascular anatomy in the ptergomaxillary area is reviewed. A level of suspicion of occult vascular injuries in patients with sudden onset of unilateral facial swelling after orthognathic surgery, even months after the procedure, is recommended.

The angiosome concept applied to arteriovenous malformations of the head and neck

Arteriovenous malformations remain a difficult clinical problem. There is very little understanding of the underlying pathogenesis of these lesions, and therapy frequently involves considerable risks with suboptimal outcomes. Recently, a comprehensive description of the angiosomes of the head and neck was completed in the authors' unit. It was noticed that the location of several clinically observed arteriovenous malformations in the head and neck seemed to correspond to the anatomic location of the choke anastomotic zones linking the angiosomes. Therefore, selective clinical angiograms were compared with those from the authors' previously performed fresh cadaver injection studies, in which they defined the angiosomes of the head and neck. In each patient, the location of the arteriovenous malformation corresponded directly to the choke vessel anastomotic zone linking two or more adjacent angiosomes. Clinical and pathologic ramifications of this observation are discussed.

Arteriovenous malformation of the forehead, anterior scalp, and nasal dorsum

Management of complex and relentless large arteriovenous malformations with long term control and acceptable aesthetic results can be accomplished. This outcome requires selective intra-arterial embolization, judicious surgical resection, composite reconstruction with free tissue transfer, other ancillary procedures, or both, and careful serial follow-up examinations to rule out recurrent or persistent disease.