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.