LASERS in Otorhinolaryngology

Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation or simply LASERS were invented by Gorden Gould in 1958. Lasers have the following tissue actions:

• Photothermal reaction:Heat production through light. Principle used in coagulation and cutting of tissues.

• Photochemical reactions: Photosensitizer interaction for chemical reactions

• Photomechanical effect: Incremental destruction of tissue in a pulsed

fashion.

• Photo-ablative reactions: Breaking of molecular bonds.

It has been revolutionising the way Otorhinolaryngology procedures are done for the past few decades. It has seen tremendous growth in medical technology over the years. The introduction of lasers in the field has revolutionized the treatment options for various ENT disorders. The precision and efficiency of lasers have made them a popular choice among ENT specialists for treating various conditions such as voice disorders, nasal and sinus conditions, and ear disorders. In this blog, we will discuss the applications of lasers in otorhinolaryngology and how they have transformed the field.

Types of Lasers Used in Otorhinolaryngology:

The use of lasers in otorhinolaryngology is not a new concept. Over the years, many different types of lasers have been developed for use in ENT procedures. Some of the commonly used lasers in the field are:

• Carbon dioxide (CO2) Laser: This is the most used laser in ENT surgeries. It is used for various procedures such as tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, and laryngeal surgeries.

• KTP (Potassium Titanyl Phosphate) Laser: This laser is commonly used for treating conditions such as nasal and sinus disorders.

• Diode Laser: This laser is used for treating voice disorders and ear disorders.

Applications of Lasers in Otorhinolaryngology:

The applications of lasers in otorhinolaryngology are diverse and extensive. Here are some of the ways lasers are used in the field:

• Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy: Lasers are used to remove tonsils and adenoids. Compared to traditional methods, laser tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are less painful and have a faster recovery time.

• Laryngeal Surgery: Lasers are used in laryngeal surgeries to remove polyps, nodules, and other growths on the vocal cords. The precision of the laser reduces the risk of damage to surrounding tissue, resulting in a faster recovery time.

• Nasal and Sinus Conditions: Lasers are used to treat various nasal and sinus conditions such as deviated septum, sinusitis, and nasal polyps. Laser surgery for nasal and sinus conditions is less invasive and has a faster recovery time than traditional surgery.

• Voice Disorders: Lasers are used to treat voice disorders such as hoarseness and vocal cord lesions. Laser surgery for voice disorders is less invasive than traditional surgery, resulting in a faster recovery time and better outcomes.

• Ear Disorders: Lasers are used to treat various ear disorders such as cholesteatoma, otosclerosis, and stapedectomy, myringotomy. Laser surgery for ear disorders is less invasive and has a faster recovery time than traditional surgery.

Advantages of Using Lasers in Otorhinolaryngology:

• Targeted precision: The precision of lasers allows for targeted treatment, minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.

• Reduced bleeding: The heat generated by lasers cauterizes blood vessels, reducing bleeding during surgery.

• Faster recovery time: The minimally invasive nature of laser surgery results in a faster recovery time and less postoperative pain.

• Reduced risk of infection: Laser surgery is less invasive than traditional surgery, reducing the risk of infection.

• Improved outcomes: The precision and efficiency of lasers result in better outcomes for patients.

The use of lasers has revolutionized the field by providing a more precise and less invasive surgical option for patients. The precision and efficiency of lasers allow surgeons to perform complex procedures with greater accuracy and fewer complications. As technology continues to improve, the use of lasers is likely to become even more widespread, further improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

At Bangalore Head and Neck Sciences, we uphold the norm of furthering scientific advancement.