Intratracheal fire ignited by the Nd-YAG laser during treatment of tracheal stenosis.

Intratracheal combustion of a fiberoptic bronchoscope and an endotracheal tube occurred during the treatment of severe tracheal stenosis with the neodymium-YAG laser. This recognized hazard of CO2 laser surgery has not been reported previously with the use of the Nd-YAG laser. Fire hazard is inevitable when a laser is used in the airway, but the risk can be diminished. Rapid removal of the burning endoscope and endotracheal tube is essential to prevent serious complications.