Applications of the diode laser in otolaryngology.

We undertook a study to determine the usefulness and effectiveness of a relatively new, portable 980-nm wavelength diode laser with a fiberoptic delivery system. We tested the laser in several clinical situations, both in the operating room and in the office. We used it while performing 14 turbinate reduction procedures, one nasal polypectomy, one ablation of an oral papilloma, and one photocoagulation of nasal telangiectasias. Our preliminary findings indicate that the use of this laser was helpful in alleviating nasal congestion in the patients with turbinate dysfunction and in controlling epistaxis in the patient with telangiectasias. It was also effective in treating the polyp and papilloma patients. We did not experience any intra- or postoperative complications. The laser's flexible fiber delivery system is compatible with hollow instruments, allows for coaxial vision, and is ideally suited for intranasal use. Its portability and functional diversity make it an attractive alternative to the conventional carbon dioxide, argon, and neodimium:yttrium-aluminumgarnet lasers.