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Hemangioma excision

Hemangioma excision

Definition

Hemangioma excision is surgery to remove a noncancerous blood vessel growth.

See also: Hemangioma

Alternative Names

Birthmark excision

Description

The procedure is done while you are under general anesthesia (deep asleep and pain-free).

The surgeon will remove the hemangioma. If the hemangioma was large, the site may be covered with a skin graft.

Why the Procedure is Performed

This procedure may be used to remove large hemangiomas that cause symptoms or are disfiguring.

Recovery

The hospital stay will depend on the extent of surgery. Complete healing may take up to 6 weeks.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Cosmetic improvements depend on the size and location of the lesion and the surgeon's skill. Generally, the long-term outlook is quite good.

Risks

The risks for any anesthesia are:

  • Reactions to medications
  • Problems breathing
The risks for any surgery are:
  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Scarring
Review Date: 7/25/2007
Reviewed By: Robert A. Cowles, MD, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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