Intralesional laser photocoagulation-steroids as an adjunct to surgery for massive hemangiomas and vascular malformations.

Massive hemangiomas and vascular malformations have been treated with lasers and adjunctive measures. Intralesional laser photocoagulation involves the direct penetration of a tumor by a yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser fiber with photocoagulation at various depths and levels to produce thromboses and controlled coagulation necrosis, thus shrinking and blanching the malformation. Seven children have benefited from intralesional laser photocoagulation as well as steroids, embolization, and excisional surgery. Intralesional laser photocoagulation has contributed to the initial shrinkage and fibrosis of these massive vascular tumors in preparation for surgery or as the only treatment in some cases.