Low level laser effect after micro-marsupialization technique in treating ranulas and mucoceles: a case series report.

The aim of this preliminary study was to investigate the influence of low level laser therapy (LLLT) in alleviating pain caused by micro-marsupialization and the healing of oral ranulas and selected mucoceles. Eleven patients underwent micro-marsupialization treatment associated with LLLT. The patients were irradiated with a 660-nm continuous wave from an indium-gallium-arsenide-phosphorous (InGaAsP) diode laser, at 100 mW, with a spot size on the tissue surface of 0.0283 cm(2) (irradiance = 3.53 W/cm(2)). Irradiation was carried out immediately following micro-marsupialization treatment, as well as at 24, 48, and 72 h post-micro-marsupialization. All treated oral ranulas and selected mucoceles presented clinical healing. No evidence of recurrence could be identified during a mean of 11.0-month follow-up period. The use of InGaAsP diode lasers, within the parameters tested, appears to present a good alternative treatment to reduce pain and heal oral ranulas and selected mucoceles associated with micro-marsupialization.

Low-dose radiation therapy for benign salivary disorders.

Two patients, one with a persistent salivary fistula after surgery for a skin tumor overlying the parotid region, and the other with a ranula recurrent after surgery, were treated with low-dose irradiation. Both problems resolved after a total dose of less than 30 Gy, and neither patient experienced xerostomia. In selected patients, low-dose radiation therapy offers a solution to persistent salivary flow refractory to surgical management.