Specific aspects of anesthesiological management of laser surgery in otorhinolaryngology

Transoral laser surgery has become a standard procedure in the treatment of benign and malignant neoplasms of the upper aerodigestive tract. As the laser cuts and coagulates simultaneously, intraoperative bleeding is reduced, thus improving visualization of the operative field. However, the specific risks for patients and personnel that are associated with this technique necessitate strict compliance with safety regulations and precautions. The safe anesthesiological and surgical management of such procedures requires explicit knowledge of the risks inherent to laser use, as well as close communication between surgeon and anesthesiologist throughout all operative and perioperative procedures. Although potentially fatal complications are rare, surgeon and anesthesiologist need to be aware of the dangers at all times and have exact knowledge of emergency measures. The use of suitable laser-resistant endotracheal tubes, total intravenous anesthesia and an optimized breathing gas mixture can contribute to minimize the occurrence of complications in otorhinolaryngology laser surgery.