Transaxillary subfascial endoscopic approach for internal jugular phlebectasia in a child.
BACKGROUND
Surgical intervention for internal jugular phlebectasia is occasionally necessary in cases of phlebitis, thrombus formation, rupture of the lesion, and some cosmetic deformity. However, the resultant neck scar can be of suboptimal cosmesis, with consequent psychological distress, particularly for children.


METHODS
We described a 3-port transaxillary endoscopic technique performed under the fascia of the pectoralis major for excision of the dilated right internal jugular vein in an 8-year-old girl.


RESULTS
The preservation of the upper tributaries of the right internal jugular vein was helpful in draining the cerebral blood to the collaterals and in preventing postoperative craniofacial swelling immediately. Six months later, there were no signs of recurrence of other jugular veins, and the patient showed a correct hemodynamic compensation.


CONCLUSIONS
This technique offered an effective way to surgically manage internal jugular phlebectasia while avoiding the potential for poor cosmesis from any neck scar.
Chang
Yu-Tang
YT
Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medical School, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 80708 Taiwan.
Lee
Jui-Ying
JY
Wang
Jaw-Yuan
JY
Chiou
Chi-Shu
CS
D002648:Child; D004108:Dilatation, Pathologic; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007601:Jugular Veins / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D008026:Ligation / Q000379:methods; D014656:Vascular Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*