Argon laser microsurgery: Its advantages and applications in otolaryngology

Pulsed lasers and continuous wave lasers were used experimentally in our laboratories. Because of their characteristics lasers are best suited for microsurgery. The Argon laser offers definite advantages: 1. a very small spot size; 2. selective destruction of tissues with red pigments; 3. in depth effect; and 4. it can be incorporated into the optical system of a standard operating microscope. The vocal cords of 24 mongrel dogs were exposed to different doses of argon laser irridation. The animals were sacrificed at intervals of up to 45 days. In all animals the destructive lesion was dose related, predictable and well circumscribed. Minimal edema followed the irradiations. Healing was complete by the third post irradiation week. The vocal cords were covered with normal looking mucosa. Scarring was minimal and muscle fibers and cartilage unaffected.