Láser CO2 vaginal, indicaciones y aplicaciones / Vaginal CO2 laser, indications and applications

El síndrome genitourinario es una entidad hoy en día cada vez más frecuente en la mujer posmenopáusica, con signos y síntomas muy característicos que llevan a la pérdida de calidad de vida de las pacientes, generados por la disminución de estrógenos. Su diagnóstico se realiza mediante una buena historia clínica, exámenes hormonales, estudios urodinámicos y de pH vaginal. Su clínica varía desde sequedad vaginal, atrofia de la misma, vaginitis a repetición, pérdida de orina al esfuerzo, nicturia y dispareunia. A los largo de los años se han protocolizado diferentes tratamientos como reemplazos hormonales, lubricantes y cirugías invasivas vaginales. Pero en los últimos años ha aparecido una nueva terapéutica de láser CO2 fraccionado. Materiales y método. Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo de seis años de evolución, entre los años 2017 y 2023, con más de 300 pacientes tratadas con tecnología láser CO2 fraccionado, con criterios de inclusión y exclusión, protocolizando 3 sesiones cada 30 días y controles hasta los 6 meses. Resultados. Para evaluar los resultados se diseñó una encuentra de satisfacción de 5 puntos, la cual fue presentada luego de cada sesión, encontrando un alto grado de satisfacción en la mejoría clínica a medida que transcurrían las sesiones, con un muy bajo índice de complicaciones. También biopsias con mejorías histológicas que demuestran resultados. Discusión. La aplicación de esta nueva tecnología láser nos abre una posibilidad terapéutica segura, rápida y efectiva para mejorar la sintomatología y calidad de vida de nuestras pacientes con síndrome genitourinario, sumando una nueva terapéutica a todo el arsenal de tratamientos médico-quirúrgicos disponibles a la fecha. Conclusiones. El síndrome genitourinario es una entidad prácticamente inevitable, con síntomas desde leves a graves, que afecta la calidad de vida personal, sexual y social. Los tratamientos hasta la fecha hormonales, tópicos o quirúrgicos han dado mediocres resultados sin estar exentos de complicaciones, por lo que la aparición de la tecnología láser CO2 fraccionada nos ha dado el plus necesario para aportar un tratamiento seguro, eficaz, con mínimas complicaciones y una curva de aprendizaje pequeña

Genitourinary syndrome is an increasingly frequent entity in postmenopausal women today, with very characteristic signs and symptoms that lead to a loss of quality of life in patients, generated by estrogen depletion, whose diagnosis is made through a good clinical history, hormonal tests, urodynamic and vaginal pH studies. Its symptoms vary from vaginal dryness, vaginal atrophy, repeated vaginitis, loss of urine on exertion, nocturia and dyspareunia. Over the years, different treatments have been protocolized, such as hormone replacements, lubricants, and invasive vaginal surgeries. But in recent years a new fractionated CO2 laser therapy has appeared. Materials and method. A retrospective study of six years of evolution was carried out, between the years 2017 and 2023, with more than 300 patients treated with fractionated CO2 laser technology, with inclusion and exclusion criteria, protocolizing 3 sessions every 30 days and controls until the 6 months. Results. To evaluate the results, a 5-point satisfaction score was designed, which was presented after each session, finding a high degree of satisfaction in the clinical improvement as the sessions progressed with a very low indication of complications. Also biopsies with histological improvements that demonstrate results. Discussion. The application of this new laser technology opens up a safe, fast and effective therapeutic possibility to improve the symptoms and quality of life of our patients with genitourinary syndrome, adding a new therapeutic option to the arsenal of medical-surgical treatments available to date. Conclusions. Genitourinary syndrome is a practically inevitable entity, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, affecting the quality of personal, sexual and social life. The hormonal, topical or surgical treatments to date have given mediocre results, not being free of complications, so the appearance of fractionated CO2 laser technology has given us the necessary extra to provide a safe, effective treatment, with minimal complications. and a small learning curve.

Endometriosis: papel del láser de CO2 en el abordaje quirúrgico / Endometriosis: CO2 laser in surgical treatment

El tratamiento quirúrgico de elección del endometrioma es la quistectomía clásica o decapsulación. No obstante, hay suficiente evidencia científica donde se demuestra que esta técnica se asocia a una reducción de la reserva ovárica, ya sea por la exéresis de tejido ovárico sano durante el procedimiento o por el daño térmico realizado durante el control de la hemostasia. Por este motivo, se han descrito nuevas aproximaciones quirúrgicas para paliar este efecto negativo sobre la reserva ovárica. El uso del láser CO2 en ginecología se conoce desde la década de los 80, y la vaporización de la cápsula del endometrioma mediante este láser es una técnica simple, sencilla de usar, fácilmente reproducible y técnicamente accesible. Aunque inicialmente se pensó que la tasa de recurrencia con esta técnica era superior, varios estudios demuestran lo contrario. Asimismo, el daño sobre la reserva ovárica es menor comparado con la decapsulación, en términos de mejor recuento folicular y nivel de hormona antimülleriana. Aunque las tasas de gestación espontánea y por técnicas de reproducción asistida son similares, en los casos de reproducción asistida las pacientes tratadas con vaporización láser CO2 presentan un mayor recuento folicular y nivel de hormona antimülleriana comparadas con las pacientes tratadas con decapsulación. A día de hoy, el tratamiento del endometrioma sigue siendo motivo de discusión. No obstante, los estudios revisados a continuación favorecen las técnicas ablativas en términos de preservar mejor la reserva ovárica sin mayor riesgo de recurrencia.(AU)

The surgical treatment of choice for endometrioma is cystectomy or endometrioma decapsulation. However, there is sufficient scientific evidence showing that this technique is associated with a decrease in ovarian reserve, either due to the removal of healthy ovarian tissue during the procedure or due to thermal damage performed during the control of haemostasis. For this reason, new surgical approaches have been described to alleviate this negative effect on ovarian reserve. The use of the CO2 laser in gynecology has been known since the 1980s, and vaporization of the endometrioma capsule using this laser is a simple, easy-to-use, easily reproducible, and technically accessible technique. Although it was initially thought that the recurrence rate with this technique was higher, several studies show the opposite. Likewise, the damage to the ovarian reserve is less compared to decapsulation, in terms of better follicular count and antimullerian hormone level. Although the rates of spontaneous pregnancy and assisted reproductive techniques are similar, in assisted reproductive techniques patients treated with CO2 laser vaporization have a higher follicular count and antimullerian hormone level compared to patients treated with decapsulation. To this day, the treatment of endometrioma continues to be a matter of discussion. However, the studies reviewed below favor ablative techniques in terms of better preserving ovarian reserve without increased risk of recurrence.(AU)

Combining superpulse dynamic CO2 laser and supramolecular salicylic acid in the treatment of dense comedones with higher clearance in a shorter time: A prospective, randomized, split-face clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: Dense comedones are common in patients with acne vulgaris, and promoting treatment can prevent the progression of acne lesions. However, the efficacy-time conflict makes the treatment challenging and the medication options are limited by the side effects. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-five patients with symmetrical dense comedones were enrolled and the two sides of the face were randomly assigned to receive 30% supramolecular salicylic acid (SSA) combined with CO2 laser or CO2 laser monotherapy at an interval of 2 weeks for six treatment sessions. Comedones count, porphyrin index (PI), texture index (TI), melanin index, erythema index, hydration index (HI), transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and side effects were recorded at each visit till the 12th week. RESULTS: Thirty-one patients completed the study. Comedones on the combined-SSA side were reduced more after six treatments, that the mean reduction rate of the combined-SSA side was 85.76%, and that of the CO2 laser-treated side was 62.32% (Pbetween < 0.001). Combining SSA also showed a better effect on reducing PI and TI than CO2 laser singly (Pbetween < 0.001). TEWL and HI between the two sides showed no significant differences after treatments. No permanent or severe side effects were observed on both side. CONCLUSIONS: The treatment combined CO2 laser with 30% SSA dealt with the efficacy-time conflict while significantly reducing comedones and improving skin texture in 12 weeks and no serious adverse reactions occurred. LIMITATIONS: It is a single-center study and the number of subjects was small.

Tratamiento simultáneo secuencial con ultrasonidos focalizados de alta intensidad, láser de CO2 fraccionado y plasma rico en plaquetas para rejuvenecimiento facial en fototipos altos / Sequential simultaneous treatment with high-intensity focused ultrasound, fractional CO2 laser and platelet-rich plasma for facial rejuvenation in dark phototypes

Introducción y objetivo: La combinación de técnicas mínimamente invasivas es muy frecuente para tratar el envejecimiento de la piel. El objetivo de este ensayo es evaluar un protocolo de tratamiento intensivo para rejuvenecimiento facial en una sesión única, combinada y secuencial, empleando ultrasonidos focalizados de alta intensidad (HIFU), láser de CO2 fraccionado y plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP) autólogo. Material y método: Ensayo piloto para evaluar la eficacia y seguridad del tratamiento combinado en una muestra seleccionada de 15 pacientes (fototipos III-V) con signos evidentes de envejecimiento facial. La eficacia fue evaluada de forma enmascarada por 2 expertos independientes mediante comparación de fotografías antes del tratamiento y 3 meses después. Las variables analizadas (grado de dolor, laxitud, rejuvenecimiento global y satisfacción) se cuantificaron mediante escalas ordinales cuantitativas o cualitativas. La seguridad se evaluó mediante anotaciones de seguimiento en las historias clínicas. Resultados: Obtuvimos mejorías significativas en la reducción de la laxitud en los tercios superior, medio e inferior de la cara (p=0.026, p=0.011, p=0.003). En la escala de mejoría estética global, según los evaluadores expertos, 14 participantes (93%) se consideraron “mejorados” o “muy mejorados”. Todos los pacientes reconocieron algún tipo de mejoría, 9 indicaron estar “muy satisfechos”, 3 “satisfechos” y 3 “moderadamente satisfechos”. El tratamiento fue doloroso, pero suficientemente tolerado por la mayoría de pacientes. No aparecieron efectos adversos inesperados ni complicaciones importantes, con buena recuperación postoperatoria. En general los pacientes se reincorporaron a sus actividades laborales 10 días después del tratamiento. Conclusiones: El perfil de eficacia/seguridad del método ensayado ha sido muy favorable en la serie investigada. (AU)

Background and objective: The combination of minimally invasive techniques is very common to treat aging skin. The objective of this trial is to evaluate an intensive treatment protocol for facial rejuvenation, in a single, combined and sequential session, using high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), fractional CO2 laser and autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP). Methods: Pilot trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the combined treatment in a selected sample of 15 patients (phototypes III-V) with evident signs of facial aging. Efficacy was assessed blinded by 2 independent experts by comparing photographs before treatment and 3 months later. The variables analyzed (degree of pain, laxity, global rejuvenation and satisfaction) were quantified using ordinal quantitative or qualitative scales. Safety is assessed by follow-up notes in medical records. Results: Significant improvements in laxity reduction were achieved in the upper, middle, and lower thirds of the face (p=0.026, p=0.011, p=0.003). On the scale of global aesthetic improvement, according to the expert evaluators, 14 participants (93%) consider themselves "improved" or "very improved". All patients recognized some kind of improvement, 9 indicated being "very satisfied", 3 "satisfied" and 3 "moderately satisfied". The treatment was painful, but sufficiently tolerated by the majority of patients. There were no unexpected side effects or major complications, with good postoperative recovery. In general, the patients returned to their work activities 10 days after treatment. Conclusions: The efficacy/safety profile of the tested method has been very favorable in the series investigated. (AU)

Efficacy of Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause in Short-Term Evaluation-Preliminary Study.

The postmenopausal state covers 40% of modern women's lives and 50-70% of postmenopausal women report GSM symptoms such as vaginal dryness, itching, frequent inflammations, lack of elasticity, or dyspareunia. Consequently, a safe and effective method of treatment is crucial. In a group of 125 patients, a prospective observational study was performed. The aim was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of fractional CO2 laser in the treatment of GSM symptoms using a protocol of three procedures in 6-week intervals. The vaginal pH, VHIS, VMI, FSFI, and treatment satisfaction questionnaire were used. The fractional CO2 laser treatment was effective in improving all the objective forms of evaluation: vaginal pH (from 5.61 ± 0.50 at the baseline up to 4.69 ± 0.21 in the 6-week follow-up after the third procedure); VHIS (12.02 ± 1.89 at the baseline vs. 21.50 ± 1.76); VMI (21.5 ± 5.66 vs. 48.4 ± 4.46). Similar results were obtained for FSFI: 12.79 ± 5.351 vs. 24.39 ± 2.733, where 79.77% of patients were highly satisfied. Fractional CO2 laser therapy increases the quality of life by having a beneficial effect on the sexual function of women with GSM symptoms. This effect is obtained by restoring the correct structure and proportions of the cellular composition of the vaginal epithelium. This positive effect was confirmed by both objective and subjective forms of evaluating GSM symptom severity.

White Spots: Prevention in Orthodontics-Systematic Review of the Literature.

Early-stage dental demineralization, called white spots (WS), get their name from the characteristic colour that enamel takes on due to the acid attack of salivary cariogenic bacteria. They are often associated with fixed orthodontic therapy (FOT) and, if left untreated, evolve into caries with repercussions on oral health and dental aesthetics. This review aims to identify the most effective prophylaxis strategies to prevent WS during FOT. The search for the reviewed studies was conducted on the Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, selecting English-only articles published in the 5 years from January 2018 to January 2023. The keywords used were "WS" and "fixed orthodontic*", using "AND" as the Boolean operator. A total of 16 studies were included for qualitative analysis. Prevention begins with maintaining proper oral hygiene; fluoride in toothpaste, mouthwashes, gels, varnishes, and sealants can be added to prophylaxis and used regularly. Using a laser in combination with fluoride helps prevent the occurrence of WS and assists in the repair processes of initial lesions. Further studies are needed to establish international guidelines for preventing WS in orthodontically treated patients.

Treatment Options for Multinucleate Cell Angiohistiocytoma: A Case Series and Review of the Literature.

BACKGROUND: Multinucleate cell angiohistiocytoma (MCAH) is an unusual fibrohistiocytic proliferation in the dermis with vascular hyperplasia. Numerous clinicopathological studies of MCAH have been published, but little has been written in relation to treatment. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present study is to review the therapeutical approaches for MCAH in the literature and to report the results of the different therapies followed at our institution. METHODS: A literature review was conducted including all MCAH published cases that followed any therapy. Search terms included "multinucleate cell angiohistiocytoma" or "MCAH" and "treatment" or "therapy". Also, all cases of MCAH treated at our institution from 2010 to 2020 are reported. RESULTS: The literature search revealed 16 cases of MCAH treated with any of the therapeutic options. At our institution, 9 patients have been treated of MCAH between 2010 and 2020. Over 75% of them were female, and the median age was 56 years (range 47-73). More than 50% had lesions on the dorsum of the hands. Surgical excision was indicated in 2 patients, ablative CO2 laser was used in 1 patient and the 6 remaining ones followed vascular-targeted therapies (PDL and IPL). A satisfactory cosmetic result was achieved in all of them. CONCLUSIONS: We propose PDL therapy as a first-line treatment for MCAH since it achieves satisfactory esthetic results, while being well-tolerated. Selecting those amenable patients according to morphologic characteristics may be useful to avoid unsuccessful therapies. In MCAH with predominant fibrous stroma, surgery or CO2 laser may be the best option.

Fractional CO2 Laser, Radiofrequency and Topical Estrogen for Treating Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: A Pilot Study Evaluating the Vulvar Vestibule.

Background and Objectives: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) affects more than half of postmenopausal women. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and histological aspects of microablative fractionated CO2 laser (CO2L), microablative fractionated radiofrequency (RF) and intravaginal estrogen (ET) therapy as GSM treatments for the vulvar vestibule. Materials and Methods: This study included postmenopausal women with at least one moderate-to-severe complaint of GSM. Women in the CO2L and RF groups received three monthly sessions of outpatient vulvovaginal therapy. The procedures were performed 30 min after applying 4% lidocaine gel to the vulva and vaginal introitus. Vulvar vestibular pain was assessed after each application using a 10-point VAS. A follow-up evaluation was performed 120 days after beginning each treatment. Digital images of the vulva were obtained and a 5-point Likert scale (1 = much worse, 2 = worse, 3 = neutral, 4 = better, 5 = much better) was used to assess the global post-treatment women's impression of improvement regarding GSM. Results: A significant change in clinical aspects of the vulva was observed after all treatments with a reduction in the atrophic global vulvar aspect and an enhancement of the trophic aspect. High satisfaction was also reported after treatment according to the Likert scale evaluation: CO2L (4.55 ± 0.97), RF (4.54 ± 0.95), CT (4 ± 1.41), p = 0.066. Histological evaluation revealed enhanced dermal papillae before pre-treatment, significantly reducing post-treatment in all groups (p = 0.002). No unintended effects were reported. Conclusions: CO2L, RF, and ET significantly improved GSM concerning the vulvar vestibule at the 4 months follow-up.

Tratamiento láser de cicatrices por quemaduras / Laser Treatment of Burn Scars

Las cicatrices por quemadura suponen una elevada morbilidad en forma de contracturas, desfiguración corporal y prurito, así como un elevado impacto emocional que disminuye la calidad de vida de estos pacientes. Los dispositivos láser se han mostrado eficaces para su tratamiento, por encima de los tratamientos tópicos y complementarios a la cirugía, sin generar tanta morbilidad. Sin embargo, su uso en los departamentos de dermatología hospitalarios todavía está poco extendido. El láser más utilizado es el láser CO2 para tratar el grosor de la cicatriz, alteraciones texturales, y la posible contractura asociada, restaurando la movilidad de estos pacientes cuando se encuentra alterada. El láser de colorante pulsado es especialmente útil ante las cicatrices de quemaduras recientes con componente eritematoso y para prevenir el desarrollo de cicatrices hipertróficas posteriores. La hiperpigmentación puede mejorar con láseres de pigmento en modalidades de pulso corto (nano- y picosegundos). Revisamos la evidencia de estos dispositivos para el tratamiento de las cicatrices por quemaduras y aportamos una propuesta de algoritmo terapéutico (AU)

Burn scars cause high morbidity in the form of contractures, body disfigurement, and itching, and they also have a high emotional impact that adversely affects patient quality of life. Laser therapy has proven effective in this setting. It is superior to topical treatments and can be used in conjunction with surgery, helping to reduce morbidity. The use of lasers in hospital dermatology departments, however, is still limited. Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing is the most widely used modality for reducing scar thickness, improving textural abnormalities, and treating contractures. Treatments improve mobility for patients with constrictions. Pulsed dye laser treatments are particularly useful for reducing erythema in recent burn scars and preventing subsequent hypertrophy. Pigment laser treatments with short pulse durations (nanoseconds or picoseconds) can improve hyperpigmentation. In this article, we review the evidence for the use of laser therapy for burn scars and propose a treatment algorithm (AU)

[Translated article] Laser Treatment of Burn Scars / Tratamiento láser de cicatrices por quemaduras

Burn scars cause high morbidity in the form of contractures, body disfigurement, and itching, and they also have a high emotional impact that adversely affects patient quality of life. Laser therapy has proven effective in this setting. It is superior to topical treatments and can be used in conjunction with surgery, helping to reduce morbidity. The use of lasers in hospital dermatology departments, however, is still limited. Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing is the most widely used modality for reducing scar thickness, improving textural abnormalities, and treating contractures. Treatments improve mobility for patients with constrictions. Pulsed dye laser treatments are particularly useful for reducing erythema in recent burn scars and preventing subsequent hypertrophy. Pigment laser treatments with short pulse durations (nanoseconds or picoseconds) can improve hyperpigmentation. In this article, we review the evidence for the use of laser therapy for burn scars and propose a treatment algorithm (AU)

Las cicatrices por quemadura suponen una elevada morbilidad en forma de contracturas, desfiguración corporal y prurito, así como un elevado impacto emocional que disminuye la calidad de vida de estos pacientes. Los dispositivos láser se han mostrado eficaces para su tratamiento, por encima de los tratamientos tópicos y complementarios a la cirugía, sin generar tanta morbilidad. Sin embargo, su uso en los departamentos de dermatología hospitalarios todavía está poco extendido. El láser más utilizado es el láser CO2 para tratar el grosor de la cicatriz, alteraciones texturales, y la posible contractura asociada, restaurando la movilidad de estos pacientes cuando se encuentra alterada. El láser de colorante pulsado es especialmente útil ante las cicatrices de quemaduras recientes con componente eritematoso y para prevenir el desarrollo de cicatrices hipertróficas posteriores. La hiperpigmentación puede mejorar con láseres de pigmento en modalidades de pulso corto (nano- y picosegundos). Revisamos la evidencia de estos dispositivos para el tratamiento de las cicatrices por quemaduras y aportamos una propuesta de algoritmo terapéutico (AU)

Simulation of Melting Efficiency in Laser Cutting of Hardox 400 Steel.

Laser cutting has experienced a sharp development in recent years due to the advantages it implies in industrial production, the most important being: great diversity of processed materials, reduced cutting time, low processing cost, small percentage of removed material, and low impact on the natural environment. The problem of energy has become acute in the last year, so a new direction of research has taken shape, consisting of the optimization of the high energy consumptions involved in laser cutting. The objective of this research is to develop a computational and experimental model to estimate the melting efficiency. Additionally, the research seeks to establish some mathematical relationships that describe the law of variation of the melting efficiency depending on the input parameters in the CO2 laser cutting. The experimental determinations were carried out on Hardox 400 steel plates of 8 mm thickness. The input parameters were laser power, assist gas pressure, and cutting speed. The experimental data were statistically processed, and the results were verified with the Lagrange interpolation method. It was found that the maximum melting efficiency is influenced mainly by laser power (F = 3.06; p = 0.049), followed by speed and pressure. The results obtained show that the melting efficiency varies in the range (13.6-20.68) mm3/KJ. The maximum value of the melting efficiency (20 J/mm3) was obtained when the laser power was 5100 W, the cutting speed 1900 mm/min, and the gas pressure 0.5 bar, and the minimum efficiency under conditions of speed setting at 1700 mm/min and laser power of 5000 W. Linear and quadratic regression models were established to estimate the global mean efficiency according to two independent variables that act at the same time. The established calculation relationships contribute to the improvement of the literature and constitute a tool for practical applications. The results obtained allow the modeling of cutting parameters and the optimization of production costs in industrial processes that use laser cutting.

Laser Treatment of Burn Scars. / Tratamiento láser de cicatrices por quemaduras.

Burn scars cause high morbidity in the form of contractures, body disfigurement, and itching, and they also have a high emotional impact that adversely affects patient quality of life. Laser therapy has proven effective in this setting. It is superior to topical treatments and can be used in conjunction with surgery, helping to reduce morbidity. The use of lasers in hospital dermatology departments, however, is still limited. Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing is the most widely used modality for reducing scar thickness, improving textural abnormalities, and treating contractures. Treatments improve mobility for patients with constrictions. Pulsed dye laser treatments are particularly useful for reducing erythema in recent burn scars and preventing subsequent hypertrophy. Pigment laser treatments with short pulse durations (nanoseconds or picoseconds) can improve hyperpigmentation. In this article, we review the evidence for the use of laser therapy for burn scars and propose a treatment algorithm.

Strategies and Controversies in the Treatment With Carbon Dioxide Laser of Laryngeal Hemangioma: A Case Series and Review of the Literature.

INTRODUCTION: The hemangioma is the most common vascular tumor, involving the head and neck in 60% of cases. It is rare in the larynx. In children, hemangiomas are more frequent on the subglottis, whereas in adults the most common site is the supraglottis. Laryngeal hemangioma with cavernous features isolated to the free edge of the vocal fold is a very rare clinical finding. We present 2 cases of glottic hemangioma. Both patients reported severe hoarseness. CASES: In the first patient, an extensive blue-purple mass was seen on the right vocal cord. The patient was posted for microlaryngeal surgery with carbon dioxide (CO2) laser. Second patient had a large, smooth, flesh-colored polypoid mass emanating from the left vocal cord. The patient was posted for microlaryngeal surgery. After 2 months, both patients showed a considerable voice improvement. DISCUSSION: Vocal cord hemangiomas are very rare, and they usually cause problem in the voice of the patient. A vascular lesion that may mimic a hemangioma may sometimes result from an organizing hematoma following a hemorrhage on the vocal cords due to voice abuse. Laryngeal hemangiomas also need to be distinguished pathologically from polypoidal vascular granulation tissue that may be produced by laryngeal biopsy, intubation, or trauma. Indirect endoscopy is enough to diagnosis. No active treatment is advised for adult laryngeal hemangiomas unless the lesions are symptomatic or show a tendency to involve other parts. There is no uniformly accepted treatment of head and neck hemangiomas. Surgical excision with laser CO2 microlaryngoscopic techniques gives satisfactory results.

Results of laser surgery in the treatment of Zenker's diverticulum.

INTRODUCTION: Zenker's diverticulum is an uncommon pathology of the upper oesophageal sphincter whose most frequent symptoms are the association of dysphagia and regurgitation. It is more frequent in advanced ages, and its treatment of choice is surgery in symptomatic cases. METHOD: A retrospective descriptive study was performed of 27 patients operated in the Otorhinolaryngology service of the Hospital Universitario de Cabueñes between 2007 and 2019 using laser endoscopic surgery. RESULTS: 27 patients were operated, 70.4% male and 29.6% female, with a mean age of 67 years (range between 30 and 91). The most frequent symptom at diagnosis was dysphagia. No intraoperative complications were observed. One patient (3.7%) presented post-surgical fever, and another patient (3.7%) had a serious complication due to oesophageal perforation secondary to postsurgical emesis. The median hospital stay was 5 days, and the median oral intake was 4 days. Recurrence was observed in 6 patients (22.2%), 4 (14.8%) requiring a second intervention, which was performed using the same technique. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The surgical treatment of Zenker's diverticulum has advanced in recent decades, with endoscopic treatment currently being the choice. Among the surgical options, endoscopic CO2 laser surgery is an effective and safe alternative, although possible complications must be considered. It is also an effective alternative for the treatment of recurrences.

Resultados de cirugía láser en el tratamiento del divertículo de Zenker / Results of laser surgery in the treatment of Zenker's diverticulum

Introducción: El divertículo de Zenker es una patología infrecuente del esfínter esofágico superior cuya clínica típica es la asociación de disfagia y regurgitación alimentaria. Es más frecuente en edades avanzadas, y su tratamiento de elección es quirúrgico en casos sintomáticos, existiendo diversas técnicas quirúrgicas.MétodoSe realiza un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de 27 pacientes intervenidos en el Servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital Universitario de Cabueñes entre los años 2007 y 2019 mediante cirugía endoscópica láser.ResultadosSe intervinieron 27 pacientes, un 70,4% varones y un 29,6% mujeres, con una edad media de 67 años (rango entre 30 y 91). El síntoma más frecuente al momento del diagnóstico fue la disfagia. No se observaron complicaciones intraoperatorias. Un paciente (3,7%) presentó fiebre posquirúrgica, y otra paciente (3,7%) una complicación grave por perforación esofágica secundaria a emesis posquirúrgica. La mediana de estancia hospitalaria fue de 5 días, y la del inicio de ingesta oral fue 4 días. Se observó recidiva en 6 pacientes (22,2%), requiriendo una segunda intervención cuatro de ellos (14,8%), que se realizó mediante la misma técnica.Discusión y conclusionesEl tratamiento quirúrgico del divertículo de Zenker ha avanzado en las últimas décadas, siendo actualmente de elección el tratamiento endoscópico. Dentro de las opciones quirúrgicas, la cirugía endoscópica con láser CO2 es una alternativa eficaz y segura, aunque se deben tener en cuenta las posibles complicaciones, en ocasiones de gravedad. Supone también una alternativa eficaz para el tratamiento de las recidivas. (AU)

Introduction: Zenker's diverticulum is an uncommon pathology of the upper oesophageal sphincter whose most frequent symptoms are the association of dysphagia and regurgitation. It is more frequent in advanced ages, and its treatment of choice is surgery in symptomatic cases.MethodA retrospective descriptive study was performed of 27 patients operated in the Otorhinolaryngology service of the Hospital Universitario de Cabueñes between 2007 and 2019 using laser endoscopic surgery.Results27 patients were operated, 70.4% male and 29.6% female, with a mean age of 67 years (range between 30 and 91). The most frequent symptom at diagnosis was dysphagia. No intraoperative complications were observed. One patient (3.7%) presented post-surgical fever, and another patient (3.7%) had a serious complication due to oesophageal perforation secondary to postsurgical emesis. The median hospital stay was 5 days, and the median oral intake was 4 days. Recurrence was observed in 6 patients (22.2%), 4 (14.8%) requiring a second intervention, which was performed using the same technique.Discussion and conclusionsThe surgical treatment of Zenker's diverticulum has advanced in recent decades, with endoscopic treatment currently being the choice. Among the surgical options, endoscopic CO2 laser surgery is an effective and safe alternative, although possible complications must be considered. It is also an effective alternative for the treatment of recurrences. (AU)

Treatment of Rectovaginal Fistula Using Fractionate CO2 Vaginal Laser: A Case Series.

Background: Rectovaginal fistulas (RVFs) are abnormal tracts that connect the lower gastrointestinal tract with the vagina. They can result from obstetric trauma, infection, local surgeries, cancer, radiation damage, and Crohn's disease. Despite the advances in surgical and clinical treatment, there is no consensus regarding the best line of treatment. Objective: To report five cases of patients with RVF submitted to intravaginal CO2 fractional laser treatment, as a complementary and additional therapeutic option in this scenery. Materials and methods: Five laser sessions with monthly intervals followed by complete evaluation through clinical examination and magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis were performed for all patients. Results: Three patients had complete resolution of symptoms after the end of planned vaginal laser sessions, whereas two patients reported significant improvement in symptoms. Four patients who had stopped having sex due to their condition admitted to resuming regular sexual activity. In addition, all five patients had closure of the fistulous track confirmed by pelvic MRI. No adverse events from vaginal laser therapy were reported by any of the patients. Conclusions: We believe this method to be a complementary, promising, and safe therapeutic alternative for the management of RVF. It may potentially enable return to regular sexual activity. Future studies using this therapeutic strategy are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of this method in this clinical setting. Clinical trial registration no.: CAAE 93673618.4.0000.5133.

Uncovering and Autonomous Eruption of Palatally Impacted Canines-A Case Report.

The impaction of permanent maxillary canine is a common clinical occurrence, and it is observed in 2% of patients who require orthodontic treatment. This case report describes a new orthodontic-surgical approach through the use of CO2 laser, for the exposure of the palatally impacted canines. A 13-year-old female referred to our observation to make an orthodontic examination because of the maxillary primary canines' persistence in upper arch. Orthopanoramic X-ray showed impaction of both permanent maxillary canines. The family history revealed that the patient's mother had the same orthodontic problem. Cone Beam Computer Tomography (CBCT) was requested to plan the surgical-orthodontic treatment. Surgical exposure of the impacted canines was performed using a CO2 laser and subsequent periodontal pack application. No orthodontic devices were applied for impacted teeth traction on dental arch. Canines' movement was monitored at 1, 8 and 16 weeks post-surgery with photo and intraoral scanner CS3500 (CS3500®, Carestream Health, Atlanta, GA, USA). When canine crowns were completely erupted on palatal side, the alignment in the arch with indirect bonding technique was performed. Complete disimpaction of canine crowns was obtained in only four months. As reported in the literature, this case confirms that impacted canines' exposure to CO2 laser has advantages if compared with traditional surgery: no bleeding during and after the procedure, decontaminant effect on the surgical area, no suture, and a fast spontaneous eruption. Conclusions: The pre-orthodontic uncovering and autonomous eruption of palatally impacted maxillary canines provides simplified, predictable, and more aesthetic outcomes. Furthermore, a significant positive factor is that there is no need to carry out the orthodontic traction of the impacted element, undoubtedly better compliance by the patient during the next alignment phase with the fix orthodontic appliance.

Results of laser surgery in the treatment of Zenker's diverticulum. / Resultados de cirugía láser en el tratamiento del divertículo de Zenker.

INTRODUCTION: Zenker's diverticulum is an uncommon pathology of the upper oesophageal sphincter whose most frequent symptoms are the association of dysphagia and regurgitation. It is more frequent in advanced ages, and its treatment of choice is surgery in symptomatic cases. METHOD: A retrospective descriptive study was performed of 27 patients operated in the Otorhinolaryngology service of the Hospital Universitario de Cabueñes between 2007 and 2019 using laser endoscopic surgery. RESULTS: 27 patients were operated, 70.4% male and 29.6% female, with a mean age of 67 years (range between 30 and 91). The most frequent symptom at diagnosis was dysphagia. No intraoperative complications were observed. One patient (3.7%) presented post-surgical fever, and another patient (3.7%) had a serious complication due to oesophageal perforation secondary to postsurgical emesis. The median hospital stay was 5 days, and the median oral intake was 4 days. Recurrence was observed in 6 patients (22.2%), 4 (14.8%) requiring a second intervention, which was performed using the same technique. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The surgical treatment of Zenker's diverticulum has advanced in recent decades, with endoscopic treatment currently being the choice. Among the surgical options, endoscopic CO2 laser surgery is an effective and safe alternative, although possible complications must be considered. It is also an effective alternative for the treatment of recurrences.

Estimation of the autoclave and different surface treatments on microleakage between soft liner and heat-cured acrylic / Estimativa da autoclavagem e diferentes tratamentos de superfície na microinfiltração entre o soft liner e o acrílico termopolimerizável

Objective: The present study was oriented to estimate the effect of different surface treatments on the microleakage between the soft liner and acrylic with and without the use of autoclave as disinfection method. Material and Methods: Sixty samples were split into two groups: the autoclaved groups and non-autoclaved groups. Each one subdivided into three groups: first one without any treatments as a control group; in the second group surface of the samples were treated with CO2 laser (10.6 nm wavelength for 15 seconds), and in the third group the surface was treated with sandblasting (250 µm Al2O3). All the samples exposed to thermocycling, then the microleakage test was evaluated by gauging dye penetration depth between the soft liner and acrylic disc using a digital microscope. Data analyzed statistically by One-way ANOVA and Tukey's post-hoc tests. In addition, t-test was used for comparison between two groups (P-value ≤ 0.05). Results: The maximum mean values for the microleakage were observed in the untreated group (control) followed by the group treated by CO2 laser and the lowest mean value of microleakage was related to the third group for both non-autoclaved and autoclaved groups with significant differences among them. In addition, depending on the use of autoclave, there was non-significant in all studied groups. Conclusions: There was a decrease in the microleakage when the surface treated with CO2laser and sandblast. The use of autoclave did not badly change the microleakage between the soft liner and denture base. (AU)

Objetivo: O presente estudo teve como objetivo estimar o efeito de diferentes tratamentos de superfície na microinfiltração entre o soft liner e o acrílico usando ou não a autoclve como método de desinfecção. Material e Métodos: Sessenta amostras foram divididas em dois grupos: grupo com uso da autoclave e grupo sem uso da autoclave. Cada um subdivide em três grupos: o primeiro sem nenhum tratamento como grupo controle; no segundo grupo, a superfície das amostras foi tratada com laser de CO2 (comprimento de onda de 10,6 nm por 15 segundos) e, no terceiro grupo, a superfície foi tratada com jateamento (250 µm Al2O3). Todas as amostras foram expostas à termociclagem, em seguida o teste de microinfiltração foi realizado medindo-se a profundidade de penetração do corante entre o soft liner e o disco de acrílico em microscópio digital. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente por One-way ANOVA e testes post-hoc de Tukey. Além disso, o teste t foi usado para comparação entre dois grupos (P-valor ≤ 0,05). Resultados: Os valores médios máximos de microinfiltração foram observados no grupo não tratado (controle) seguido pelo grupo tratado com laser de CO2 e o valor médio mínimo de microinfiltração foi relacionado ao terceiro grupo para ambos os grupos não autoclavado e autoclavado com diferenças significativas entre eles. Além disso, dependendo do uso de autoclave, não houve significância em todos os grupos estudados. Conclusão: Houve diminuição da microinfiltração quando a superfície foi tratada com laser de CO2e jateamento. O uso de autoclave não alterou a microinfiltração entre o soft liner e a base da prótese (AU)