• Hsiang-Kuan Wang, Yao-Han Tsai, Yih-Yiing Wu, and Pa-Chun Wang.
• Department of Otolaryngology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
• Photomed Laser Surg. 2004 Jun 1; 22 (3): 173-6.

ObjectiveThis study investigated the efficacy of using the KTP/532 laser in endoscopic inferior turbinate reduction surgery.Background DataPotasium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP/532) laser is a useful tool in endoscopic intranasal operations, due to its outstanding capabilities in hemostasis, tissue penetration, and the maneuverability of its flexible transmission optic fiber.Materials And MethodsA total of 124 patients (male/female 73:51, mean age 38.7 +/- 12.3 years) with chronic hypertrophic rhinitis who received endoscopic KTP/532 laser inferior turbinate reduction surgery (7 Watts, continuous mode, 0.6-1-mm spots) were available for follow-up (mean follow-up period, 25.1 +/- 7.3 months). Medical records were retrospectively reviewed, and patients were interviewed with a questionnaire.ResultsThe KTP/532 laser was excellent in relieving nose obstruction caused by inferior turbinate hypertrophy; 87% of patients reported improvement. The outcomes were less promising in reducing post-nasal drip; 12.9% reported only some improvement. Under intranasal endoscopy, the risk of postoperative bleeding and complication was low.ConclusionThe findings proved that, with the use of an endoscope, the KTP/532 laser appears to be an excellent alternative for treating hypertrophic inferior turbinate.

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