Laser surgery in the oral cavity

As a cutting instrument, the CO 2 laser is the most suitable type of laser currently available for medical applications. It has proved particularly advantageous in surgery of the upper aerodigestive tract, as its energy-absorbing properties, which do not depend on dyes, allow its effect in tissue to be controlled accurately. Additionally, the slight degree of postoperative edema is invaluable, especially in the region of the upper respiratory passages.