Craniofacial deformation in cystic hygroma

Mandibular and dentoalveolar deformities associated with cystic hygroma of the head and neck have previously been described. This small series has identified changes involving the entire craniofacial skeleton, attributable to both the local and distant effects of massive facial lymphangiomas, without evidence of any actual soft tissue ingrowth into bone. In view of the inability to excise such lesions and normalize the soft tissue anatomy, the surgical approach to the craniofacial skeletal abnormality should be to reserve the required osteotomies or ostectomies until the completion of facial growth.