Surgical Management of Epistaxis in Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia

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Abstract
• The most common manifestation of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HH) is recurrent epistaxis. Numerous treatments have been used over the years, none proving entirely satisfactory. We have applied a new surgical treatment in seven selected cases of HHT with severe, life-threatening epistaxis. It consists of a near-total excision of the diseased nasal mucosa and its replacement by different skin flaps or a myocutaneous flap. This procedure has been performed since 1981. We stress the reliability and versatility of using the forehead myocutaneous island flap. Our original technique is described, follow-up of the patients is reported, and the criteria for selection of treatment are discussed. (Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1987;113:754-757)