Laser Surgery in the Head and Neck Cancer

Abstract

The CO2 laser surgery was performed on 19 cases of the head and neck cancers and 25 cases of benign diseases which included adenoma, granuloma and leukoplakia during the period from May to September, 1979. Either the linear or fixed vaporization techniques was used depending on condition of the tumors. Operations were performed either under general or local anesthesia. One of the advantages of the laser surgery was a reduction of blood loss during surgery. For example, the average blood loss was 400 ml in the maxillary sinus operation using the laser, while it was 700 ml in conventional surgery. The followings were other advantages: Tumors could be severed without touching themselves. Rapid healing process after surgery was obtained. Laser surgery could be performed under local anesthesia. This enabled us to shorten the period of hospitalization. In conclusion, we have found that the laser surgery can be incorporated as one of the multi-disciplinary treatment of the head and neck tumors. We should adequately coordinate reduction operation, radiation, local chemotherapy, immunotherapy, mental and nutritional therapy. © 1980, The Society of Practical Otolaryngology. All rights reserved.