Stereophotogrammetric Evaluation of Labial Symmetry After Surgical Treatment of a Lymphatic Malformation.

Lymphatic malformations (LMs) are rare, nonmalignant masses, frequently involving the head and neck, potentially causing impairment to the surrounding anatomical structures. Major LMs frequently cause facial disfigurement with obvious consequences on self-esteem and social functioning. The attempt to restore symmetry is thus one of the main goals of treatment. In this study, the authors present a not-invasive method to objectively quantify the symmetry of the labial area before and after surgical treatment of a LM, affecting a 16-year-old woman. This was done with sequential three-dimensional stereophotogrammetric imaging and morphometric measurements. The method showed a high reproducibility and supplied quantitative indicators of the local degree of symmetry, helping clinicians in its objective assessment, and facilitating treatment planning and evaluation. A quantitative appraisal of the results can additionally improve patient adherence to a usually multistage therapy.

A review of options for treating sialorrhea in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Sialorrhea or drooling represents quite a common problem in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In this review, we describe the possible treatments for this issue. Current medical management is not always effective: anticholinergic drugs (atropine, glycopyrrolate, amitriptyline, hyoscyamine, and transdermal scopolamine) are often used, but there is very little evidence of their effectiveness in patients with ALS. More invasive treatments, such as botulinum toxin injections and/or radiation therapy in the salivary glands, can be considered when anticholinergic drugs are not effective. In this review, we also explore the possible surgical options for treatment of sialorrhea. Although no specific studies have been conducted on patients with ALS, surgical therapies might represent a valid option for treatment of sialorrhea since there is no tachyphylaxis or need for repeated therapeutic sessions.