Laser Therapy for Vascular Anomalies of the Head and Neck

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This course will provide the basics of laser technology and application to the field of vascular anomalies in the head and neck. The types of lasers available and their use in the management of specific vascular anomalies will be outlined with an algorithm for laser choice, treatment timing, and expected outcomes. Some of the specific lasers discussed include: pulsed dye, GentleYAG, Nd:Yag, CO2, alexandrite, and TruBlue. Common vascular anomalies amenable to laser therapy include infantile hemangiomas, port wine stains, venous malformations, and lymphatic malformations (cutaneous and mucosal). The course will discuss the indications, benefits, and risks of the use of lasers in the treatment of these lesions and others.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Describe basic laser concepts and how they are applied to the management of vascular anomalies.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Explain the indications, benefits, and risks of laser therapy use in the treatment of vascular anomalies of the head and neck.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Recognize patient selection criteria for the main lasers used in the management of head and neck vascular anomalies and provide techniques for use of each laser.

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: Education on vascular anomalies is an area of deficiency in many otolaryngology training programs. Similarly, education about laser technology is lacking in our field. This course is applicable to learners of all levels from residency to experienced providers and will focus on these topics.