Laser bronchoscopy in palliative treatment of malignant obstructing endobronchial tumors

This retrospective study investigates the experience of our ENT Department in the palliative treatment of obstructive malignant bronchial tumors with endoscopic laser surgery. 82 laser procedures on 39 patients were performed between January 1988 and December 1993. In 25 cases, a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser and, in 14 cases, a combined CO2-Nd:YAG laser were used. In 60 procedures, more than half of the tumor could be resected with laser. In 22 cases, minor improvement of the bronchial airway was achieved. Subjectively, most of the patients felt improved breathing after surgery and all were ready to undergo repeated treatment if it was offered. Two fatal complications occurred. We conclude that endoscopic laser surgery is a relatively safe treatment modality for palliation of a compromised airway and can offer a better life quality to selected patients, although it also involves the possibility of fatal complications.