Cohen Children's Medical Center, New Hyde Park, NY, de Duve Institute, Brussels, Belgium, Vascular Birthmark Center, New York City, NY, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA
Vascular anomalies of the head and neck can occur as a spectrum of disease severity, with some involving only a small, focal area and others diffusely involving critical structures including the tongue, carotid artery, facial nerve and the airway. These “impossible to treat lesions” are typically initially seen in the pediatric otolaryngology practice, but otolaryngology training is frequently insufficient for obtaining expertise in their management. With newer discoveries about the genetics behind these lesions, there are potential clinical ramifications that may shape future management with targeted therapeutics. It is critical to provide continued education and updates on best practice patterns as well as innovative techniques that are currently being researched in the management of these patients. The goals of this miniseminar are to provide updates in the management of extensive lymphatic malformations and arteriovenous malformations based on recent updates in the genetics of vascular anomalies and to help guide others to a best practice pattern for the future. With an improvement in the knowledge of genetic pathway therapeutic targets, genetic testing can now allow for precision medicine in the care of vascular anomalies. Updates in management principles, best practice patterns, and applicable molecular biology will be discussed. Interesting and complex cases will be used to guide discussion.