Complications of CO2 laser surgery of the larynx.

The use of the surgical laser has become commonplace in many medical centers, however the limitations of its use need to be assessed. The complications of laser use are based on the physics of the instrument and the equipment used. Direct laser effects include burns of tissue unintended for lasing, and endotracheal tube (E-T) ignition. Secondary effects occur as immediate consequences of lasing, such as E-T tube obstruction, internal E-T ignition, or mucosal charring. A case of airway obstruction is presented. Delayed effects relate to healing. Suggestions are made to help avoid the outlined complications.