[Micro-laser surgery in nasopharyngeal tumors with steel reflector. Report of experiences with an improved technique].

BACKGROUND

Microsurgery of the nasopharynx by carbon dioxide laser requires operating with a steelreflector. The problems with light, view, time, and assistance should thus be reduced.

METHODS

A newly constructed micro-polished self-retained steelreflector allows the surgeon to operate with both hands under better light and viewing conditions.

RESULTS

The concept was practiced on four patients, two with metastatic nasopharyngeal cancer, one with metastatic oro-nasopharyngeal cancer, and one with a verrucous carcinoma at the dorsal soft palate, in 24 sessions without problems. The poor prognosis of the metastatic cancer did not change; however, the patients' quality of life improved considerably. Outpatient treatment was the rule. There has been no recurrence of the verrucous carcinoma at the dorsal soft palate for 14 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The concept increases reliability in microsurgery of the nasopharynx by carbon dioxide laser by providing improved light and viewing conditions, and allows fast operating.