Cervical Thorotrast Granuloma: A Review of the Literature and a New Treatment Modality

Abstract

Extravasation of thorium dioxide after transcervical carotid angiography has resulted in persistent open draining neck wounds. These difficult problems have remained a challenge for the treating head and neck surgeon. Neck dissection has been the mainstay of treatment in the past; however, this has been fraught with complications. The application of doxycycline sclerosis is described in the successful resolution of a large Thorotrast granulomatous neck wound. A review of the literature and the management options of Thorotrast granulomas are discussed.