[Selective embolization and surgical resection for head and neck glomus tumours--clinical outcome analysis]

The effectiveness and safety of angiographic embolization was investigated as a preliminary step prior to surgical excision of glomus tumours in the head and neck region. Embolization was performed in 54 patients presenting with a total of 58 chemodectomas, jugular (n=30), tympanicum (n=24) and caroticum (n=4) between the years 1988 and 2006. Embolization was considered successful if complete occlusion of all tumor-feeding vessels was achieved. The procedure was performed using polyvinylalcohol particles and microcoils and lasted for a median duration of 159 minutes. Complete tumor embolization was achieved in 72 % of patients. In 23%, it was partly successful and in 4% it was unsuccessful. 16% of patients experienced minor events during the procedure including hypotension, bradycardia, and vertigo. Following embolization, almost all patients (98%) had their tumour completely excised. Although the majority experienced minor postoperative complications (69%), one patient developed meningitis. There were no reported deaths. Angiographic embolization of glomus tumours in the head and neck before definitive excision can be safe and effective, resulting in an improved surgical outcome and tumour resectability.