CO2 laser surgery in osteomyelitis.
OBJECTIVE
To prove that the thermal energy of CO2 lasers, when applied on the fistula, pyogenic sac, and septic bone in cases of osteomyelitis, creates an aseptic area, diminishes relapses, and promotes healing in those patients treated.


BACKGROUND
CO2 laser surgery, whether used in a focused or unfocused manner, has been incorporated into surgical procedures because of its incisive, coagulating, and antiseptic properties. These forms and characteristics are especially useful in the treatment of chronic osteomyelitis.


METHODS
The authors recorded their experiences with 80 patients (10-75 years) with different types of chronic osteomyelitis. Classical surgical procedures were performed incorporating the CO2 laser beam.


RESULTS
Of the 80 patients, 45 healed with a single application combined with sequestrectomy implant removal, etc. Twenty-two patients needed up to three sessions to heal. Twelve patients did not heal, 1 asked for an amputation, and 3 were unavailable for follow-up procedures. We did not evaluate antibiotics prescribed, or cultures taken, due to the multiplicity of drugs used by chronic osteomyelitis patients with disease progression, and the various permutations and combinations of germs involved.


CONCLUSIONS
Although CO2 laser beam surgery cannot replace classic surgical procedures in osteomyelitis, it is an important adjunctive tool that helps enhance surgical effects and assists in the healing process.
Ceballos
A
A
Dept. of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Centro de Investigaciones Médico-Quirúrgicas, La Habana, Cuba.
Balmaseda
R
R
Puente
R
R
Pedroso
M
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000379:methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D010019:Osteomyelitis / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D002245:Carbon Dioxide