Laser TreaTmenT in OraL and maxiLLOfaciaL HemangiOma and VascuLar maLfOrmaTiOns

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the 980 nm diode laser and Er:YAG laser for photocoagulation treatment of oral and maxillofacial hemangioma and vascular malformations. Material and Methods: Seventy consecutive patients with either hemangioma or low-flow vascular malformations of the head and neck treated with laser photocoagulation were comprised in the study. Results: Long-term follow-up demonstrated regression of the lesion in all patients with good aesthetic results. The range of reduction in size varied between 45% and 95% and no complications or reperfusion of the lesions was noted. Photocoagulation with diode laser or Er:YAG laser of hemangioma and vascular malformations is an effective treatment for correctly selected patients. Conclusion: When properly applied, these techniques can achieve reduction in size of these lesions without compromising function and cosmetics.