[Experiences with the treatment of vascular malformations using the Nd-YAG laser].

Lasers have been used for about 15 years in the treatment of vascular malformations and haemangiomas in the head and neck area. The physical properties of the neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser system make it particularly suitable for this purpose. We review our first experience with the treatment of vascular malformations using the Nd-YAG-laser. 9 Patients with 10 vascular malformations were treated. A complete remission was achieved with 9 of the 10 vascular malformations and a partial remission with the remaining case. No complications were observed. The neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser therapy has proven itself as simple to use, being highly effective and having a low complication rate.