The argon laser in surgery for chronic ear disease and otosclerosis

The use of the argon laser in chronic ear disease and otosclerosis surgery is reviewed. Its advantages and limitations are discussed, and safe parameters for use established. The argon laser is an effective tool to remove, cut, and coagulate tissue. It was used in over 500 microsurgical otologic procedures without deleterious effects. One hundred primary laser stapedotomies were performed, and the audiological results were compared to those obtained using conventional small fenestra stapedectomy techniques. No significant statistical difference was present in the audiologic results after 1 year of observation. The clinical course of the laser stapedotomy patients suggested this technique was less traumatic than conventional techniques.