Neodymium-YAG laser photocoagulation of hemangiomas of the head and neck.

Hemangiomas of the head and neck region can be a therapeutic challenge depending on their size, flow rate, and location. The neodymium-yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd-YAG) laser was used to treat 16 pediatric and adult patients with cavernous, capillary, and mixed hemangiomas as well as hypertrophic port-wine stains of the head and neck. Low-power energy and intermittent short exposure accomplished photocoagulation with minimal damage to surrounding tissue. Follow-up study in these patients has ranged from 1 to 3 years with excellent results in 14 of 16 patients. Few complications and no major morbidity or mortality occurred. Photocoagulation of hemangiomas of the head and neck using the Nd-YAG laser appears to be an exciting new therapeutic option for this difficult problem. Further clinical study and follow-up appear to be warranted.