Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the results of treating laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma using diode laser.Design: Prospective study.Setting: Department of ENT-Al Jamhuri Teaching Hospital.Patients and Methods: Thirty one cases of squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx with age range between 32-66 years. The stage of tumour was Tis: 3, T1: 12, T2:14, & T3:2 cases . Lesions were excised or evaporated using diode laser with safety margin and followed for at least 36 months to evaluate cure rate, recurrences and its relation to site and stage of tumour, need for tracheostomy, complications and quality of voice.Results: Diode laser was highly effective in treating early laryngeal cancer.Cure rates after 36 month follow up were 100%, 92% & 78% for Tis, T1 & T2 respectively. For more advanced lesions (T3) , the role of laser was limited only for debulking to avoid tracheostomy or biopsy taking in deep seated tumours as alternative to open biopsy. No major intraoperative or postoperative complications happened and no tracheostomy needed. Patients were discharged after twenty four hours. Voice quality was good after surgery in most cases.Conclusion: Diode laser is safe in treating squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx and highly effective in early stages (Tis, T1, T2) and can avoid tracheostomy or open biopsy in more advanced lesions. Key words: Diode laser, squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx.
