Indications and technique for endoscopic laser resections in bronchology. A critical analysis based upon 2,284 resections.
Over a period of 6 years, we have treated 1,310 patients in 2,284 sessions using a neodymium-yttrium aluminum garnet laser. Indications are more often palliative than curative, with the primary goal to relieve an obstructed airway in a single treatment. The effectiveness of such resections is widely recognized, but indications for such a technique with its limitations deserve emphasis. The use of a rigid bronchoscope is important to provide satisfactory operating conditions and especially to manage hemorrhage rapidly while maintaining a satisfactory airway.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001982:Bronchial Diseases / Q000601:surgery; D001984:Bronchial Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D020680:Bronchoscopes; D001999:Bronchoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D003528:Carcinoma, Adenoid Cystic / Q000601:surgery; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D007834:Lasers / Q000009:adverse effects; D008875:Middle Aged; D012306:Risk; D014134:Tracheal Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery; D014135:Tracheal Stenosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery