Subjective comparison of Nd:YAG, diode, and CO2 lasers for endoscopically guided inferior turbinate reduction surgery

Lasers using different wavelengths and delivery systems have been used to reduce the inferior turbinate mass when hypertrophic inferior turbinates obstruct the nasal airway. Different laser systems produce different laser-tissue interactions. This study presents a comparison between three laser systems: CO2, Nd:YAG, and Diode lasers for inferior turbinate reduction surgery, all performed under endoscopic control. A total of 46 patients were randomized into three treatment groups and followed for more than 1 year. Subjective and objective data were collected. Subjective impressions of improved nasal airway was achieved in 41% (Diode), 47% (Nd:YAG) and 57% (CO2) and was not statistically significant. There was more postoperative bleeding in the CO2 laser group, with 3 patients requiring tamponade. The CO2 laser procedure also took longer to perform. These results failed to show a significant difference between the different lasers for inferior turbinate reduction. Overall, the results were not impressive.