[Lymphangioma colli--what are the prognostic factors? Experiences with 36 cases].
OBJECTIVE
A new classification of the Lymphangioma colli (LC) should allow to inform about prognosis at the time of diagnosis or prenatal sonography.


METHODS
Pre- and postoperative parameters in 36 operated children (1988-2000, Ø follow up 4.3 years) were evaluated dependent on the volume of the LC as defined. Type I: the tumor does not alter the normal shape of the neck; type II: the LC reaches a line placed at the lateral border of the head; type III: the LC does not respect this line; type IV: the LC exceeds the midline of the body.


RESULTS
According to delivery, diagnostics, resection, reintervention, postoperative complications, nerve injury, hospital stay, aesthetics, tracheo- and gastrostoma predominantly significant differences were found.


CONCLUSIONS
The proposed classification permits to advise the parents about the expected prognosis: Type I: it is excellent; type II: some asymmetry remains in 15%; type III: postoperative complications occur in up to 38%; type IV: morbidity increases and prognosis decreases significantly.
Schuster
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Kinderchirurgische Klinik im Dr. v. Haunerschen Kinderspital, Klinikum Innenstadt, Ludwig-Maximilian-Universität München, Lindwurmstrasse 4, 80337 München.
Grantzow
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D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D018191:Lymphangioma, Cystic / Q000145:classification / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011247:Pregnancy; D011379:Prognosis; D012086:Reoperation; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal