Craniofacial venous malformations treated by percutaneous sclerotherapy using polidocanol: a single-center experience

Background Percutaneous therapy with various sclerosants is an established treatment of venous malformations in general. We investigated the safety and effectiveness of polidocanol in the craniofacial region. Purpose To present and evaluate our subjective and objective mid- and long-term results of patients with craniofacial venous malformations (CFVM) after percutaneous sclerotherapy using polidocanol. Material and Methods Twenty patients with CFVM treated by percutaneous sclerotherapy were followed up and asked to fill in a questionnaire comparing levels of the following CFVM-related symptoms before and after treatment: pain; functional impairment; cosmetic deformities; and impairment in daily life. Additionally, both size reduction as well as procedural-related complication rates were analyzed. Results Evaluation of the questionnaire revealed an improvement or complete relief of CFVM-related symptoms with significant reduced impairment in daily life after percutaneous sclerotherapy. Eighteen (90%) patients noticed a post-sclerotherapy improvement of at least one of their corresponding symptoms and expressed satisfaction with regard to their treatment. For 13 patients, a > 50% size reduction of the CFVM could be observed, while seven exhibited a < 50% size reduction. One minor complication was encountered in 56 treatment sessions (1.8%). Conclusion Percutaneous sclerotherapy using polidocanol is a well-tolerated treatment for CFVM with a low complication rate. Size reduction and positive results with improvement of different clinical symptoms can be achieved.