TECHNIQUE OF TUMOR DEBULKING IN THE HEAD &NECK USING Nd:YAG LASER

L.S.Handikin,P.Hasan,Pelni &Husada Hospital,Jakarta-Indonesia

Abstract

The goal of tumor treatment is eradiaction of the disease while maintaining the patient"s quality of life.In saome cases with head and neck tumor we have used Nd:YAG laser for tumor debulking.
Tumor was diagnosed clinically and its pathology was verified through biopsy.Squamous cell carcinoma underwent in vivo staining technique to observe dysplasia,ca in situ,pre invasive carcinoma or second focus of malignancy.
Tumor delineation was done with imaging system(contrast CT scanning,MRI).Whenever possible debulking procedures were done endoscopically,to minimize surgical trauma.Imaging control was done to observe the result.We used knife for skin incission only.Nd:YAG laser was used for cutting,coagulating and evaporating purposes.
For illustration,cases of nasal,paranasal,tonsillar,laryngeal and nasopharyngeal tumors treated with Nd:YAG laser were presented.

Keywords:Nd:YAG laser;Head and Neck Tumor;Tumor debulking

LASER CIRCUMCISION

Laser has its role in circumcision. If you look for a tool to make a bloodless incision in doing circumcision, laser is the choice!

Carbon dioxide (C0₂) laser is the favorite because it cuts and coagulates almost at the same time. Water is the chromophore or absorbing component of the tissue when you replace the scalpel with laser. However, you lose your tactile sensation while using it because you cannot transmit the laser with a fiber. You can use it with fiber but you have to pay for the technology

You can design appropriate delivery system as needed like putting a prism in the hand piece for lateral or side firing.

If you like, you may use Nd:YAG laser where you deliver it with your intact tactile sensation. Increased quality of treatment including less pain is due to less edema post-operatively and increased level of local endorphins production following laser surgery.

If you need more information, you may contact The Indonesian Society for Laser Medicine via e-mail at iklasi_pusat @yahoo.com