Lasers in otolaryngology

Lasers no longer conjure images of high-tech, futuristic gadgetry. Because of lasers’ ubiquity, most surgeons across all specialties have at least some laser experience. By cutting and/or coagulating in narrow, dark spaces into which conventional instruments do not easily reach, lasers continue to offer the surgical tool of choice for select head and neck procedures. Lasers have the ability to selectively photothermolyse certain cutaneous lesions that can provide unique advantages. In many other circumstances, lasers represent a controversial or secondary alternative line of therapy. Some lasers have become antiquated and replaced by tools that feature even less invasion and tissue trauma, such as flash scanners or microdebrider instrumentation.