We have had the opportunity to make use of a CO2 laser apparatus and treated the surface lesions of the oral mucosa. Eighteen cases were treated and they consisted of nine cases of lichen planus and nine of leukoplakia. The lesions were vaporized at an output of 15 to 20 watts with the defocusing spot about 2mm in diameter. On leukoplakia, vaporization was done all over the lesion 1.5 to 2.0mm in depth including the marginal normal tissue. On the contrary, lichen planus was vaporized slightly in depth and at the limited area of redness and erosion. Bleeding was little at operation. Postoperatively, most of the patients complained of the contact pain. Since it was light, applying to the Anesthesin-Azulen ointment, the symptom disappeared or was reduced. Prognosis was uneventful.
