Role of KTP-532 laser in management of oral submucous fibrosis.

INTRODUCTION

Oral submucous fibrosis is a chronic disease characterised by progressive inability to open the mouth. Various treatment modalities are available for its management, but these have largely been ineffective.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Nine cases of oral submucous fibrosis underwent a release procedure using a KTP-532 laser, from March 2005 to January 2006, within the ENT-head and neck surgery department of a tertiary centre.

RESULTS

Pre- and post-operative mouth-opening was compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test, and a significant difference observed (Z = -2.690, p = 0.007). Follow up over an average period of 12 months showed encouraging results.

CONCLUSION

This preliminary study indicated that adequate release of oral submucous fibrosis can be achieved by using a KTP-532 laser release procedure, with minimal morbidity and satisfactory results. These promising results should encourage more widespread use of this technique in the management of this condition.