The Usefulness of CO2Laser-Assisted Phonomicrosurgery Using a Computer-Guided Scanner in Broad-Based Vocal Polyp

Abstract

Received July 10, 2013 Revised July 19, 2013 Accepted July 29, 2013 Address for correspondence Seung-Kuk Baek, MD Department of OtolaryngologyHead and Neck Surgery, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 136-075, Korea Tel +82-2-920-5485 Fax +82-2-925-5233 E-mail mdskbaek@gmail.com Background and ObjectivesZZNew computer-guided scanner (CGS) recently applied to CO2 laser micromanipulator allows the beam to sweep a given surface with extreme rapidity. Our aim in this study is to evaluate the efficacy and usefulness of CO2 laser-assisted phonomicrosurgery using a CGS in broad-based vocal polyp. Subjects and MethodZZThe current study enrolled 41 patients who underwent phonomicrosurgery for broad base polyp of vocal fold. Twenty patients underwent CO2 laser-assisted phonomicrosurgery using CGS (Group 1), and 21 patients underwent conventional phonomicrosurgery using cold instruments (Group 2). ResultsZZAll voice analysis parameters showed significant improvement after surgical treatment, except fundamental frequency and noise-to-harmonic ratio. Differences between preoperative and postoperative parameters of each voice analysis data did not differ significantly between the two groups. ConclusionZZAlthough no significant difference was observed between the two groups, CO2 laser-assisted phonomicrosurgery using CGS allow for performance of more accurate and delicate incision with a controllable depth of beam penetration. Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg 2013;56:511-5