Cystic hygroma of the head and neck. A review of 37 cases.

37 children with cystic hygroma of the head and neck are reviewed. 92 per cent of the children required surgical excision of the cystic hygroma and one-third of these children suffered a permanent nerve palsy. Spontaneous resolution of the cystic hygroma occurred in 8 per cent of the children over a period of follow-up lasting on average 7 years 2 months (range 3 months-20 years). 41 per cent of the children suffered significant upper airway and feeding problems.