The use of CO2 laser in otolaryngology: a progress report.

Since 1971 the CO2 laser has been used in otolaryngology at Boston University School of Medicine, University of Illinois, and the Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat Hospital, New Orleans; over 560 patients have been cared for and over 1,000 operations performed. The instruments have proved to be reliable and the use of CO2 laser relatively free of complications when appropriate precautions are taken. The nature of the laser wound is such that laser surgery has facilitated the management of numerous benign and malignant lesions of the larynx as well as the oral cavity, pharynx, and tracheobronchial tree. Laser surgery is associated with a minimal morbidity, excellent healing, minimal scar formation, and excellent residual function. The instrument has been most useful in the management of lesions situated in relatively inaccessible areas such as the nasopharynx, subglottic area of the larynx, and tracheobronchial tree. The advantages of laser surgery in otolaryngology are so significant that it can be recommended for continued usage. Many applications of this unique surgical instrument have been identified but others need to be explored in the future.