Management of cystic lymphangiomas in Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The management of cystic lymphangiomas is and challenging. Of all the available modalities of treatment, surgery remains the gold standard but it is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.


Method: Retrospective analysis of 28 cases of cystic lymphangioma seen at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-ife, Nigeria.


Results: There were 16 boys and 12 girls with a median age of 6 months. The cervical region was most commonly involved site in 19(67.9%) children. Eight (28.6%) of the patients had morbidity at presentation. Only 24 of the 28(86%)patients had surgical excision. Complete macroscopic excision was possible in 15 (62.5%) patients. There was one death (4.2%) at induction of anaesthesia due to rupture of a cervical cyst at intubation with aspiration. Post-operative complications occurred in 10 (41.7%) patients. Recurrence was reported in 1(4.6%) patient.


Conclusion: The presentation of cystic lymphangiomas in our own environment is diverse. There is a high preoperative morbidity. Surgery remains the only option available in this environment but is associated with a high e complication rate.


(Nig J Surg Res 2003; 5: 32 – 37)


Key words: Cystic lymphangioma, morbidity, mortality