The successful use of bipolar radiofrequency ablation (coblation) in treatment of a lymphatic malformation affecting the upper airway

Abstract

<p class="abstract">Lymphatic malformations of the head and neck region frequently involve the upper aero digestive tract. Patients with these lymphatic malformations may present in early infancy with sudden airway compromise. This necessitates early intervention with intubation or tracheostomy for airway stabilization. The etiology and pathogenesis of lymphatic malformations is still unclear, and a wide array of treatment modalities has been proposed. We present a case report of a neonate with a lymphatic malformation involving the upper airway, and discuss how the patient was initially stabilized with a tracheostomy, following which he underwent a series of staged procedures, including bipolar radiofrequency ablation, which eventually led to successful decannulation.</p>