Laser treatment of oral vascular anomalies. A retrospective observational study

TL;DR

This study examines laser treatments for oral vascular anomalies, finding them safe and effective with high patient satisfaction.

Contribution

The study provides real-world evidence on laser treatment outcomes for oral vascular anomalies in a specific geographic population.

Findings

Venous lakes were the most common diagnosis, and lips were the most frequent location.

Induced photocoagulation with Nd:YAG laser was the primary treatment method.

Larger lesions correlated with delayed healing and scar formation.

Abstract

Oral vascular anomalies, though benign, may impact comfort and aesthetics, particularly in visible or functional areas. Laser therapies have gained prominence due to their precision, minimal invasiveness, and favourable outcomes. This study aimed to analyse the laser treatment modalities for oral vascular anomalies and their respective outcomes in a population of the north of Portugal.

This retrospective study analysed 111 vascular anomalies in 95 patients treated between January 2011 and May 2025 in the University Clinics of IUCS-CESPU. Data on demographics, type and location of vascular anomalies, treatment (Nd:YAG, CO2 or diode laser), and outcomes were collected.

Venous lakes were the most frequent diagnosis (n=77;69.4%) and lip was the most common location (n=81;73%). Induced photocoagulation (IPC) (n=79;71.2%), essentially with Nd:YAG, was the predominant technique. Recurrence was observed in 4 cases (3.6%), healing occurred mostly 21 days (n=88; 79.3%), scar tissue was present in 10 cases (9%), pain was reported in 29 patients (26.1%) (mean of 0.85±0.14), and satisfaction was high (n=103; 92.8%). No major complications were observed. Logistic regression analysis showed that larger vascular anomalies were associated with delayed healing (p=0.009) and scar formation correlated with presence of pain (one day after intervention) (p=0.03) and recurrence (p=0.039).

Laser-based management in particular, IPC, is a safe, effective, and well tolerated option for the treatment of small oral vascular anomalies. Prospective studies are encouraged to optimize protocols and standardize the technique.

Figures