Embolization of vascular tumors of the head and neck

Abstract

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas and paragangliomas are the most common hypervascular tumors of the head and neck that require embolization as an adjunct to surgery. A detailed understanding of the functional vascular anatomy of the external carotid artery is necessary for safe and effective endovascular therapy. Embolization, using a transarterial technique and particulate agents, a direct puncture technique and liquid embolic agents, or both techniques may allow for complete devascularization of hypervascular tumors of the head and neck. Effective embolization of these tumors results in a significant reduction of blood loss during surgery and allows for complete resection of the tumors. Use of meticulous technique and a thorough knowledge of functional anatomy of the head and neck vasculature are essential.