Endoscopic surgical management of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma: Correlating tumour characteristics, risk of hemorrhage, and recurrence

Abstract

Objectives

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is an uncommon tumour primarily seen in young males. It is characterized by its vascular nature and aggressive growth pattern, presenting a significant surgical challenge. Endoscopic sinonasal surgery has become the treatment of choice, reducing both morbidity and blood loss, as well as recurrence rates. This study aims to present the clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes of patients with juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma treated exclusively with endoscopic surgery at our centre.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on cases of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma treated with endoscopic surgery at a single centre between 2013 and 2023.

Results

A total of 21 patients were included in the study, with a mean age of 17.7 years. 57.14 % of the patients presented with an advanced stage (Stage ≥ IIc Radkowsky). The median volume was 79.2 cm³. Pre-surgical embolization was performed in all cases. 7 patients (33.3 %) required blood transfusion. The need for blood transfusion was associated with greater tumour volume (p = 0.0028), intracranial extension (p = 0.025), extension to the infratemporal fossa (p = 0.024), and orbital extension (p = 0.026). There were 2 cases (9.5 %) of tumour recurrence/persistence, both classified as stage IIIb. Tumour persistence/recurrence was more common in patients with intracranial extension (p = 0.045).

Conclusion

Exclusive endoscopic resection of these tumours, regardless of volume and extension, does not increase the risk of blood loss or recurrence. Advanced-stage tumours, especially those with intracranial extension, present a higher risk of bleeding and tumour persistence. In these cases, the low morbidity of the endoscopic approach becomes more evident.