The advantages of carbon dioxide laser applications in paediatric oral surgery. A prospective cohort study

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Pediatric Dentistry
• Laser Dentistry

Background:

• Traditional surgical methods in pediatric oral surgery can lead to significant post-operative discomfort and complications.
• Minimally invasive techniques are sought after to improve patient experience and outcomes in pediatric dental procedures.
• Carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers offer potential benefits for soft tissue management due to their precise cutting and coagulation properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the advantages of CO2 laser surgery in pediatric oral surgery patients.
• To assess post-operative complications, healing, patient perception, and acceptance.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of CO2 laser therapy for soft tissue conditions in children.

Main Methods:

• A cohort study involving 100 pediatric patients (aged 4-15 years) undergoing CO2 laser surgery for soft tissue conditions.
• Pain assessment using the Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale pre-operatively, immediately post-operatively, and 1 day after.
• Evaluation of post-operative complications, healing, patient perception, and satisfaction via telephone interviews and 2-week follow-ups.

Main Results:

• Zero post-operative complications were reported among all patients.
• Pain scores were rated 0 pre-operatively and immediately post-operatively, and 0-2 at 1 day post-operatively.
• Patients reported very good perception and acceptance of the CO2 laser treatment, with healing observed over 2 weeks.

Conclusions:

• CO2 laser therapy is a desirable, acceptable, and minimally invasive technique for pediatric oral soft tissue surgery.
• The procedure offers minimal post-operative complications, excellent healing without scarring, and positive patient experiences.
• CO2 laser dentistry represents a promising advancement in providing improved care for children and adolescents in oral surgery.