Treatment of superficial benign vascular tumors by high intensity focused ultrasound: Observations in two illustrative cases

Background: Existing therapeutic methods for reduction or removal of superficial vascular malformations and tumors have high risks of scarring and other complications that result in aesthetic appearance less favorable than the baseline. Patients are often cautioned against intervention, which can lead to psychosocial problems and low self-esteem. Improved treatment modalities are therefore relevant from both medical and aesthetic perspectives.

Methods: Two volunteer subjects were treated with a medical 20 MHz high intensity focused ultrasound device developed for dermatological conditions. One patient was given three treatments to remove a superficial congenital hemangioma on the left middle cheek. The other patient was given a single treatment to remove seven cherry angiomas on the thighs. Handpieces with nominal focal depths of 0.8 - 1.8 mm below the skin surface were used to administer acoustic energy of 1.1 - 1.2 J/dose. An integrated dermoscope in the handpiece was used to monitor the treatment in real-time.

Results: During treatment, blood in the capillary network of the lesions was coagulated immediately, and capillary walls were collapsed due to the thermal and mechanical effects of the high intensity focused ultrasound. During the healing phase, the areas regenerated a normal skin structure with very limited scar or dyspigmentation. At follow-up, a clear aesthetic improvement was observed over the baseline for all treated targets with the exception of two cherry angiomas, where focal depth and/or dose coverage had not been optimal.

Conclusion: High intensity focused ultrasound is concluded to be a safe and efficient skin treatment for benign superficial vascular malformations and tumors.