[The CO2 laser in laryngeal diseases]

At present the CO2-laser is employed in almost every surgical specialism. If it is right to prefer laser treatment for special operations to conventional surgical methods, is not yet decided. However, the use of laser beam energy for laryngeal conditions offers undeniable advantages as: -- No direct instrumental contact. Involuntary movements which can occur when using long-reach instruments during conventional microlaryngeal surgery do not play a role. -- Little bleeding. The treating area stays all the time under good visual control. --Outmost precision by which an intended operation is to perform. Exact on the desired place with an adjust quantity of energy tissue can be vaporized as well with very limited amount as extensive, or be removed by cutting round. -- No postoperative edema. No or hardly any edema means that tracheotomy often needed for some conditions in another way of treatment usually is unnecessary. On account of experience during 4 years is shown which possibilities laser-microlarynx surgery offers.