OBJECTIVE: To explore the therapeutic effect of radiofrequency ablation for tongue venous malformation( VM). METHODS: From July 2013 to July 2014, 30 cases with tongue VM (local or diffuse) were retrospectively analyzed. 23 cases underwent radiofrequency ablation treatment. The radiofrequency electrode tip(0. 5 mm in diameter) was inserted into the lesion 1 mm below the bottom with 25 W in power and 15-30 s of pulse. The treatment was repeated when the electrode tip was removed back every 1 mm. Multi-point treatment was performed. RESULTS: 15 cases with unilateral VM were completely healed after one-stage radiofrequency ablation. 8 cases with bilateral VM received two-stage radiofrequency ablation with a 3-6 months of interval. Among the 8 cases, completely healing was achieved in 5 cases, partial VM residue happened in 3 cases due to its diffuse lesion and reservation of tongue function. 23 cases were followed up for 3 month to 1.5 years. Good cosmetic and functional results was achieved in 20 cases with no relapse. Partial VM residue was left in 3 cases. CONCLUSIONS: Radiofrequency ablation can effectively treat tongue VM with minimal morbidity and good cosmetic appearance. It also avoids the disadvantages of surgery.
OBJECTIVE: To explore the therapeutic effect of radiofrequency ablation for tongue venous malformation( VM). METHODS: From July 2013 to July 2014, 30 cases with tongue VM (local or diffuse) were retrospectively analyzed. 23 cases underwent radiofrequency ablation treatment. The radiofrequency electrode tip(0. 5 mm in diameter) was inserted into the lesion 1 mm below the bottom with 25 W in power and 15-30 s of pulse. The treatment was repeated when the electrode tip was removed back every 1 mm. Multi-point treatment was performed. RESULTS: 15 cases with unilateral VM were completely healed after one-stage radiofrequency ablation. 8 cases with bilateral VM received two-stage radiofrequency ablation with a 3-6 months of interval. Among the 8 cases, completely healing was achieved in 5 cases, partial VM residue happened in 3 cases due to its diffuse lesion and reservation of tongue function. 23 cases were followed up for 3 month to 1.5 years. Good cosmetic and functional results was achieved in 20 cases with no relapse. Partial VM residue was left in 3 cases. CONCLUSIONS: Radiofrequency ablation can effectively treat tongue VM with minimal morbidity and good cosmetic appearance. It also avoids the disadvantages of surgery.