[The use of copper-vapor laser radiation on patients with chemical burns of the esophagus via fiber esophagoscopy].

Fifty patients with chemical burns of the esophagus were examined fibroesophagoscopically. All of them underwent local endoscopic irradiation by a copper vapour laser. Laser treatment promoted more rapid healing of the esophageal wall. No cicatrization-induced strictures were noted. Adjuvant local laser therapy is believed valid in management of esophageal chemical trauma.