CO₂ Laser Surgery
Sep 07, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Zhenhua
Introduction
CO₂ laser belongs to the infrared spectrum and is a continuously emitted gas molecular laser, with a laser efficiency of approximately 10–15%. Its tissue penetration depth is measured in micrometers, causing minimal damage to surrounding tissues. Due to its extremely narrow beam divergence during surgery and high energy density, the CO₂ laser can achieve power densities of up to kilowatts per square centimeter when focused, thereby maximizing preservation of the patient’s normal laryngeal function.
Traditional treatment modalities for laryngeal cancer primarily include open partial and total laryngectomy, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. Open surgery enables radical resection of tumor tissue, significantly reducing tumor recurrence; however, extensive resection inevitably leads to loss of normal laryngeal function.
Radiotherapy may result in several persistent complications, including skin injury, abnormalities in olfaction and taste, and damage to blood vessels and lymphatics within the irradiated field; moreover, post-treatment recurrence rates remain difficult to control reliably.
The CO2 laser belongs to the infrared spectrum and is a continuously emitted gas molecular laser with an efficiency of approximately 10–15%. Its penetration depth is measured in micrometers, causing minimal damage to surrounding tissues.
Due to its extremely narrow beam divergence and high energy density, the CO2 laser achieves power densities of up to several kilowatts per square centimeter when focused. This confers exceptional directionality and energy concentration, minimizing local tissue tearing and traction during surgery, thereby maximizing preservation of the patient’s normal laryngeal function.
