Dental impression silicone putty in transoral laser laryngeal surgery: prevention of oral complications.

Abstract

To describe a new method to improve the exposure of the surgical field and to protect the oral cavity during transoral laser micro-surgery (TOLMS) of the larynx. Dental Impression Silicone Putty (DISP) was employed as an alternative to traditional mouthguards. DISP mouthguards perfectly fit to each patient, reduce encumbrance in the mouth, and reduce pressure on the teeth; disadvantages are minimal. Although clinical studies are necessary to demonstrate the efficacy of the method in reducing the incidence of oral complications, DISP mouthguards represent a significant aid for laryngeal exposure.