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NOSE / SINUS

Argon plasma coagulation is an effective treatment for hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia patients with severe nosebleeds

, , , , , , , , & show all
Pages 174-180 | Received 05 May 2012, Accepted 30 Jul 2012, Published online: 15 Oct 2012
 

Abstract

Conclusions: In contrast to the current trend according to which the treatment of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) epistaxis depends on clinical severity, argon plasma coagulation (APC) has also proven to be effective as a first-line procedure in patients with severe nosebleeds. Furthermore, with this approach patients are free from requirements for blood transfusions for a long time in the vast majority of cases. Objective: The aim of this study was to test the efficacy of APC treatment as a first-line procedure in HHT patients affected by severe epistaxis. Methods: From 1996 until 2011, 252 HHT patients were treated with APC in our clinic. We selected 26 patients with severe epistaxis for whom the need for blood transfusion had been recorded. This group of patients was asked to answer a questionnaire that aimed to evaluate the severity of epistaxis (defined by its intensity, frequency, and duration), to assess the duration of the benefit of treatment and to evaluate the number of blood transfusions required before and after treatment. Results: After APC treatment, a statistically significant decrease in all epistaxis parameters was recorded and most patients did not need blood transfusions for several years after the procedure.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.

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