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Updated: Apr 27, 2026

Electrochemotherapy of Tumours
Published on: December 15, 2008
Highly selective electrocoagulation therapy: an innovative treatment for lymphangioma circumscriptum
1*Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; †Special Department of Hemangioma, Hospital of PLA General Political Department, Beijing, China.
Highly selective electrocoagulation therapy offers a safe and effective new treatment for lymphangioma circumscriptum (LC), a lymphatic malformation. This minimally invasive technique achieved near-complete clearance in 12 patients with acceptable local complications.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Vascular Malformations
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Lymphangioma circumscriptum (LC) is a microcystic lymphatic malformation affecting skin and mucosa, presenting as vesicles.
- LC causes cosmetic issues, rupture, infection, lymphorrhea, and bleeding.
- Previous treatments like surgery, lasers, and sclerotherapy have shown variable success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a novel treatment for lymphangioma circumscriptum (LC).
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of highly selective electrocoagulation therapy for LC management.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 12 patients (ages 4-31) with LC.
- Treatment administered via electrocoagulation using a specialized isolated needle.
- Data collected on demographics, lesion characteristics, imaging, treatment, and clinical response.
Main Results:
- Near-complete clearance of LC was achieved in all 12 patients.
- Minimal intra- and postoperative complications were noted, including mild pain, scarring, and ulceration.
- No systemic side effects were observed during the mean 8.25-month follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Highly selective electrocoagulation therapy is a promising, minimally invasive treatment for LC.
- The technique appears safe and effective, with acceptable local complications.
- Further studies with larger populations are warranted to confirm these findings.
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