Analysis of misdiagnosis of intramuscular hemangioma in children and surgical therapy

Objective To explore the characteristics of intermascular hemangioma in children, potential cause of misdiagnosis, and key points in surgical therapy. Methods Between July 2001 to Ju- ly 2010, total 24 cases of intra-muscular hemangioma （IMH） was confirmed by post-operative patho- logical examination in our department. Their clinical data and cause of misdiagnosis was retrospectively analyzed. Results 13 cases in them （54. 2~） were confirmed to be misdiagnosed in pre-operation. Follow-up timeranged from 11 months to 9 year and 10 months （Average time follow-up time was 9 year and 7 months）. The tumor tissue was completely resected in 22 cases, and recurrence was found in 1 case. Also, 2 cases undertaking incomplete excision recurred and no recurrence after secondary operation in them. During the follow-up period slight claudication and muscle weakness could be seen in 5 cases, especially when walking fast or running. The complications correlated to nerve and blood vessel was not found in them. Conclusions The signs of （IMH） is not easy to be found in physical ex- amination, and multidisciplinary examination need to be performed to achieve accurate diagnosis. The scope and anatomy of lesion will contribute to complete resection of tumor tissue. Meanwhile, function of affected limbs need be maintained. In case of high risk, staging operation associated with interven- tional therapy should be taken into account. Key words: Child;  Hemangioma;  Diagnostic errors;  Surgical procedures, operative