Embolization techniques in vascular tumors of the head and neck.

Surgical excisions of vascular tumors of the head and neck are frequently associated with difficulties because of the potential of operative blood loss. The technique of selective percutaneous embolization before surgery has emerged as a valuable adjunct-and even alternative-to surgery in the management of such lesions. By reducing the blood flow to a vascular tumor or arteriovenous malformation, embolization techniques can be greatly facilitate surgical excision. The participation of a qualified invasive radiologist is essential. If cases are carefully selected and procedural details strictly adhered to this technique can be quite valuable to surgeons treating vascular lesions of the head and neck.