[Statistical comparison of surgical results with or without laser in neurosurgery]

In the literature, no significant statistical studies have been published on the effectiveness of laser compared with traditional procedures in neurosurgery; we have decided to study a series of 198 gliomas and 220 meningiomas operated upon either with a laser or with conventional techniques. We considered the post-operative morbidity, the duration and the quality of survival. These data have been clearly influenced by the type of surgery. On the contrary, no significative difference was observed concerning the survival rate of gliomas whatever their grading. In the laser-group, morbidity and quality of life are improved (36 months follow-up); but the mortality rate (3 years) is equal in both groups. Concerning meningiomas, patients of both groups (with and without laser) were clinically improved during the post-operative period. A significative difference appears only for meningiomas located in functional areas and operated with a laser.