Problem Laser Endotracheal Tubes: One Company Is Plagued with Lawsuits and Accidents

Laser surgery and fire hazards in ear, nose, and throat surgeries

Operating room fires are rare but can be devastating. These fires can occur during almost any surgical procedure but are more likely during airway surgery, during head and neck surgery, and if volatile flammable liquids are used. Each team in the operating room (ie, anesthesia, surgery, and nursing) has special expertise and responsibility in preventing and responding to a fire. Fires can be prevented by ongoing education and an interdisciplinary discussion of risks and responsibilities prior to each high-risk case.

Tubeless anesthetic technique for optimal carbon dioxide laser surgery of the larynx

PURPOSE

To evaluate the operative conditions and safety of a tubeless technique of anesthesia for carbon dioxide laser surgery of the larynx.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study evaluated 78 consecutive procedures in 72 adult patients undergoing carbon dioxide laser microlaryngeal surgery. Anesthesia was maintained by an intravenous infusion of Propofol (ICI Pharmaceuticals, Cheshire, UK) while the patient breathed spontaneously without endotracheal intubation.

RESULTS

The operative conditions were optimal in 76 of the 78 procedures providing a clear uninterrupted view of the larynx with no combustible material in the surgical field.

CONCLUSIONS

This series shows the technique described to be safe without risk of combustion and provides an unobstructed view to the larynx.