[Hazards and complications of endoscopic laser operations in thoracic surgery].

The danger and complications of endoscopic operations with the use of IAN- and argon lasers are characterized. Among 327 bronchoscopic laser interventions carried out for tumors of the respiratory tract, 7 (3.1%) were attended by complications in the form of perforation, hemorrhage, and laryngospasm. One case with empyema of the pleura was encountered among 35 patients after laser photocoagulation of the lung through a thoracoscope. Measures for the prevention and management of these complications were developed.