Laser excision of carcinoma of the larynx

The CO2 surgical laser and microscope assembly have been used to excise carefully selected T1 carcinomas of the membranous portions of the cord. Healing has been prompt and return of function satisfactory. General anesthesia and suspension laryngoscopy have provided excellent definitions of the lesions; the laser has provided a precise method of dissection. Initial results have been excellent and long term results will depend on the accuracy with which the margins of the tumor are defined and the presence or absence of the tendency of the larynx to produce multicentric disease.