CO₂ LASER - A NEW TOOL IN THE SURGEONS ARMAMENTARIUM

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Otolaryngology
• Laser Surgery

Background:

• Head and neck cancers represent a significant oncological challenge.
• Minimally invasive surgical techniques are increasingly preferred for head and neck lesions.
• Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser offers precise tissue ablation and hemostasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser surgery for benign and malignant head and neck lesions.
• To assess post-operative outcomes, including morbidity, healing, and hospitalization.
• To determine the suitability of CO2 laser for various head and neck tumor locations.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 165 patients treated with CO2 laser surgery.
• Analysis of lesion location, including alveolo-buccal complex, larynx, and tongue.
• Evaluation of surgical excision, wound healing, scarring, complications, and hospitalization duration.

Main Results:

• The alveolo-buccal complex was the most common site for tumors (68/165).
• All lesions were widely excised with successful healing and minimal scarring.
• Post-operative morbidity and complications were minimal, with hospitalization ranging from 1 to 5 days.

Conclusions:

• CO2 laser surgery is a valuable and safe tool for managing both benign and malignant head and neck conditions.
• The technique facilitates wide excision with excellent wound healing and low complication rates.
• CO2 laser surgery provides a minimally invasive option with favorable patient outcomes in head and neck oncology.