Endoscope-assisted excision of macrocystic lymphangioma in neck via anterior chest approach in infants and children

ObjectivesMacrocystic lymphangioma of the neck is traditionally removed via an overlying incision near the mass. The resultant scar can be aesthetically displeasing, and endoscope-assistant surgery is still rarely used in pediatric subjects. So we report the endoscope-assisted excision of the macrocystic lymphangioma via anterior chest, and explore its feasibility, validity and security.MethodsFrom June 2005 to December 2008, 6 infants and children with macrocystic lymphangioma accepted endoscope-assisted excision via anterior chest approach.ResultsAll procedures were successfully performed using the endoscope-assisted approach. There were no conversions of the operations or postoperative complications. All patients and their parents were satisfied with the cosmetic results.ConclusionsEndoscope-assisted excision of the macrocystic lymphangioma via anterior chest approach in children can be applied effectively, safely and feasibly, allowing adequate exposure for dissection, and resulting in a good cosmetic result, and it would be considered as a new surgical approach for these patients.