In-office laryngeal surgery with the 585nm pulsed dye laser (PDL)

Abstract

Objectives: The 585nm pulsed dye laser (PDL) is a promising tool for in-office laryngeal surgery. Data with respect to the safety and efficacy of the PDL for office laryngeal use is sparse. The purpose of this study is to review our experience with unsedated office PDL surgery.

Methods: Records of individuals undergoing in-office PDL between September 1, 2004, and September 1, 2006 were abstracted from a clinical database.

Results: Forty-seven patients underwent 117 treatments. The most common indications were recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP), Reinke's edema, and vocal fold polyps. One hundred and four of 117 procedures were felt to be a success ablating all disease. Thirteen treatments required early termination. The most common factor responsible for termination was an inability to achieve a comfortable level of anesthesia. One patient with Reinke's edema developed postprocedure stridor that required a 3-day hospital admission for observation and corticosteroids. There was no incidence of any vocal fold scarring, web formation, or other complications.

Conclusions: The 585nm PDL is a promising tool for in-office treatment of various laryngeal disorders. Complications are rare.