CO2 laser resurfacing of intraoral lymphatic malformations: A 10-year experience

ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety and efficacy of CO2 laser resurfacing in the symptomatic treatment of intraoral lymphatic malformations (LM).DesignRetrospective review.MethodsCharts were reviewed on 26 patients (16 male, 10 female) from January 1997 to July 2007 who underwent CO2 laser resurfacing for symptomatic treatment of intraoral LM. A questionnaire was given in order to elucidate effectiveness in controlling symptoms and speed of postoperative recovery.ResultsMean age at time of first treatment was 9.2 years (median 6.8). Mean number of treatments was 3.0 (median 2.5). Average time between treatments was 9.7 months (median 5.6). Questionnaires were returned for 17 patients (65%). Common preoperative symptoms included swelling, bleeding, vesicle formation, and pain. All 17 patients reported symptomatic improvement after laser treatment. Five patients (29%) tolerated oral intake immediately, 10 (59%) the following day, and 1 (6%) was gastric tube dependent. Four patients (24%) returned to normal activity immediately after treatments, six (35%) by the following day, six (35%) within a few days, and one (6%) within a week. No postoperative complications were seen.ConclusionCO2 laser resurfacing appears to be both safe and efficacious in treatment of symptoms related to intraoral LM. Intermittent treatments for recurrent symptoms is expected.