Tubeless anesthetic technique for optimal carbon dioxide laser surgery of the larynx.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the operative conditions and safety of a tubeless technique of anesthesia for carbon dioxide laser surgery of the larynx.


METHODS
This prospective study evaluated 78 consecutive procedures in 72 adult patients undergoing carbon dioxide laser microlaryngeal surgery. Anesthesia was maintained by an intravenous infusion of Propofol (ICI Pharmaceuticals, Cheshire, UK) while the patient breathed spontaneously without endotracheal intubation.


RESULTS
The operative conditions were optimal in 76 of the 78 procedures providing a clear uninterrupted view of the larynx with no combustible material in the surgical field.


CONCLUSIONS
This series shows the technique described to be safe without risk of combustion and provides an unobstructed view to the larynx.
Williams
S R
SR
Department of Otolaryngology, Royal South Hants Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom.
van Hasselt
C A
CA
Aun
C S
CS
Tong
M C
MC
Carruth
J A
JA
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000771:Anesthesia, Intravenous; D006801:Humans; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal; D007830:Larynx / Q000601:surgery*; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008875:Middle Aged; D015742:Propofol; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D012449:Safety; D014827:Vocal Cords / Q000601:surgery*
D015742:Propofol