title: Minimizing revision rates with the "Π" technique for bilateral vocal fold immobility: A new technique combining carbon dioxide and diode laser.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  For more than 25 years, posterior laser transverse cordotomy has been generally considered the ideal endoscopic minimally invasive procedure of choice for bilateral vocal fold immobility. The main drawback of this procedure, when compared to more aggressive "glottic aperture improvement" operations, is the high revision rates, caused by granulations, adhesion, and scar, for example.
  
  
  METHODS
  We describe a technique using a combination of conventional and flexible lasers. Our technique seems to minimize the revision rates.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This new technique combining CO2 and diode laser is a safe alternative for treating bilateral vocal fold palsies.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology, Ahepa Univeristy Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece.
authors.forename: Petros D
authors.initials: PD
authors.lastname: Karkos
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology, Ahepa Univeristy Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece.
authors.forename: Marios
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Stavrakas
mesh_terms: D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D006801:Humans; D054020:Lasers, Gas / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D054023:Lasers, Semiconductor / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012086:Reoperation; D014826:Vocal Cord Paralysis / Q000601:surgery*; D014827:Vocal Cords / Q000601:surgery*
chemical_list: D002245:Carbon Dioxide
keywords: bilateral; diode; laser; postthyroidectomy; tracheostomy; vocal fold immobility; vocal fold palsy