SURGICAL REMOVAL OF A HYPOPHARYNGEAL HEMA NGIOMA WITH CO2 ND-YAG COMBINATION LASER/

Hemangiomas of the upper aerodigestive tract may present a therapeutic challenge depending on their size, location and symptoms. We present a rare case of cavernous hemangioma of the aryepiglottic fold applanin g in an adult. First symptoms were dysphagia and hoarseness. Surgical removal was performed with a CO2/Nd:YAG combination laser under micros copic control. After a regular postoperative course the patient has re mained disease-free after a 2 year follow up period: We suggest the us e of the CO2/Nd: YAG combination laser as preferred treatment in cases of exophytic hemangiomas, because of the favorable combination of exc ision with photocoagulation effects.