Abstract
One hundred and fifty five patients underwent three hundred and three laser photoirradiation treatments using a Neodyme YAG Laser with a flexible bronchoscope or an open tube for various tracheobronchial conditions such as obstructing bronchogenic carcinomas, bronchial adenomas and post-intubation tracheal stenosis. The procedure was performed under either local or general anesthesia. Results were especially rewarding with endobronchial tumors. Tracheal stenosis were best treated by a combination of laser surgery and tracheal dilatation. No complication was encountered using this technique. Specific indications suggested for laser surgery are : resection of inoperable tracheobronchial tumors, correction of tracheal stenosis, removal of surgical sutures, retrieval of tissue-embedded foreign bodies and cauterization of hemorraging endobronchial tissues.
