Surgery for Laryngeal Papilloma

Abstract

The conventional treatment of laryngeal papillomas has been surgical resection using a CO₂ laser, KTP laser, cold instrument, or microdebrider under general anesthesia in an operating room. The recent advent of flexible fiber systems has made office-based laser treatment possible, and its widespread use is expected in the future. In addition, there are several reports describing the effectiveness of surgery with coblation as a novel method. Despite advances in the treatment of laryngeal papillomas, there is currently no curative treatment. Though surgery plays a major role in this field, the otolaryngologist should have a clear understanding of the concept of surgery, no matter what device is used to perform the procedure. The goal of surgery is to maintain an adequate voice function and secure the airway.

This review introduces the surgical treatment of laryngeal papillomas performed in the operating room under general anesthesia.