Using the KTP/532 laser to control epistaxis in patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia

Abstract

Osler-Weber-Rendu disease remains a challenging clinical management problem. We have found the potassium-titanyl-phosphate laser (KTP/532) for photocoagulation of intranasal telangiectases to be useful in controlling epistaxis refractory to traditional surgical therapy. We present the case of a patient who had Osler-Weber-Rendu disease previously treated with partial septectomy, turbinectomy, and intranasal dermoplasty. A technique using the KTP laser for photocoagulation of intranasal telangiectases is described. This technique has resulted in reducing the frequency of epistaxis, decreasing the need for transfusions, diminishing hospital admissions, and improving quality of life for this patient. The KTP laser plays an important role in the management of recurrent epistaxis in patients with Osler-Weber-Rendu disease.