BACKGROUND: The frequency of local and cardiovascular side effects of microlaryngoscopy is generally underestimated. There are no data available in the literature from recent and prospective clinical trials. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We examined 81 patients between 03/1998 and 03/2000 who underwent microlaryngoscopy in our department. This was done following a standard protocol before, during and after surgery. Side effects of endotracheal intubation were avoided by using supraglottic jet-ventilation. RESULTS: In 79% of our cases we encountered side effects due to the microlaryngoscopic procedure.86% of them were reversible lesions,hematomas and edemas of the mucous membranes or mild cardiovascular dysregulations. In two cases there was a dental complication (one fracture, one dislocation), and seven cases of moderate hemodynamic effects were noted. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of tissue damage caused by microlaryngoscopic endoscopes is much higher than commonly assumed in clinical practice. This has to be explained to the patient when obtaining his written consent to a certain microlaryngoscopic procedure and to be considered during the postoperative follow up.The consequent use of tooth protection and a good control of muscle relaxation and analgesia can be effective in preventing side effects.
BACKGROUND: The frequency of local and cardiovascular side effects of microlaryngoscopy is generally underestimated. There are no data available in the literature from recent and prospective clinical trials. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We examined 81 patients between 03/1998 and 03/2000 who underwent microlaryngoscopy in our department. This was done following a standard protocol before, during and after surgery. Side effects of endotracheal intubation were avoided by using supraglottic jet-ventilation. RESULTS: In 79% of our cases we encountered side effects due to the microlaryngoscopic procedure.86% of them were reversible lesions,hematomas and edemas of the mucous membranes or mild cardiovascular dysregulations. In two cases there was a dental complication (one fracture, one dislocation), and seven cases of moderate hemodynamic effects were noted. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of tissue damage caused by microlaryngoscopic endoscopes is much higher than commonly assumed in clinical practice. This has to be explained to the patient when obtaining his written consent to a certain microlaryngoscopic procedure and to be considered during the postoperative follow up.The consequent use of tooth protection and a good control of muscle relaxation and analgesia can be effective in preventing side effects.