Primary tracheoesophageal puncture using carbon dioxide laser

Lasers Med Sci. 2010 Jul;25(4):615-7. doi: 10.1007/s10103-010-0758-0. Epub 2010 Mar 23.

Abstract

Primary tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) is now considered to be the preferred method for voice rehabilitation after laryngectomy . The traditional method of creating a puncture with a no. 11 stab knife often leads to an eccentric puncture with irregular ragged margin, leading to scarring in the future. In this report we describe the innovative way of creating a TEP using a carbon dioxide (CO(2)) laser. This novel method of using a laser for the creation of a precise TEP could, perhaps, influence peri-prosthetic leakage and lead to better voice rehabilitation for patients that have undergone laryngectomy.

MeSH terms

  • Esophagus / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Laryngectomy / rehabilitation*
  • Lasers, Gas / therapeutic use*
  • Punctures / methods*
  • Trachea / surgery*
  • Voice*