Endonasal laser surgery: an update

Although surgical lasers were introduced more than 30 years ago,their use and popularity in nasal and sinus disease have been limited. Even so, there are many practitioners who find the laser a valuable surgical tool for nasal and sinus disease, either alone or in combination with other treatment modalities. Those who do not use lasers probably do not because of a lack of skill, knowledge,or understanding of the role and availability of the technology. This article reviews the history and current role of lasers in nasal and sinus surgery.