During laser bronchoscopy, tumors of the airway are
ablated with the use of thermal energy from a garnet or carbon dioxide laser
that is delivered through a bronchoscope.
Also
Known As:
Conditions
Treated with Laser Bronchoscopy:
Laser bronchoscopy may be performed in cases of
airway stenosis and a malignant or benign tracheobronchial tumor.
There are no comparable non-surgical alternatives to
laser bronchoscopy. Photodynamic laser bronchoscopy is a surgical alternative
to the procedure.
Anesthesia
with Laser Bronchoscopy:
Laser bronchoscopy may be performed under local
anesthesia and sedation. It can also be performed under general anesthesia,
which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the
procedure.
Potential
Complications from Laser Bronchoscopy:
Possible risks following laser bronchoscopy include
bleeding, airway damage, difficulty swallowing, airway burn and a negative
reaction to the anesthesia.
Prognosis
after Laser Bronchoscopy:
The prognosis for a positive end result following
laser bronchoscopy is good.
Recovery
from Laser Bronchoscopy:
Total recovery from laser bronchoscopy takes one to
three days.