Color-doppler ultrasound in the diagnosis of oral vascular anomalies

Abstract

In last few years, thanks to laser technology with minimally invasive approach, there was a growing need for treatment of oral vascular malformations inside the dental offices. Generally, the diagnosis of oral vascular malformations is based on clinical history, clinical examination and imaging exams. In the present paper, we review, researching by PubMed, the technical aspects, clinical indications, potentialities and limitations of color-Doppler ultrasound in the work-up of oral vascular malformations. Different imaging modalities are encountered for the diagnosis and follow-up of these lesions such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, color-Doppler ultrasound and angiography. To date, color-Doppler ultrasound is considered the first-line imaging approach since it provides a non-invasive, cost effective, real time evaluation of oral vascular anomalies. It provides both morphological and vascular information, which are useful to determine the best therapeutic options. Ultrasonography, for these reasons, could be considered as a valuable diagnostic tool in the preliminary assessment of oral vascular anomalies.

Evaluation of embouchure dysfunction: Experience of 139 patients at a single center

“…We recommend a facial ultrasound with Doppler be performed in patients with focal lip swelling in order not to miss this diagnosis (Fig. B) …”

“…3B). 12 The management and prognosis of NED is distinct from ED. Many NED disorders are treatable, and patients may return to normal embouchure function with appropriate management.…”

Ultrasound in maxillofacial imaging: A review

“…Other techniques in use are continuous wave Doppler, pulsed wave Doppler, Doppler duplex, and power Doppler. [17] …”

“…It can be used in imaging of vascular tumors such as hemangiomas, lymphangiomas or slow-flow and high-flow vascular malformations. [17] A common color Doppler presentation of arteriovenous malformation of the tongue is described as a hypoechoic area with lobulated margins with the depiction of feeder vessels as well. [17] The US here serves not only as a diagnostic procedure but provides the treatment guidance as well.…”

“…[11] The High-frequency US has a long Fresnal zone and a greater depth resolution, although the tissue absorption also increases. [13] US pulse comprises a collection of frequencies called the bandwidth (5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15)(16)(17)(18)(19)(20). Higher is the fundamental frequency, better is said to be the spatial resolution.…”