Contact Diode Laser for Posterior Laryngofissure in Pigs: Comparison Between 980nm and 1470nm Wavelengths

Abstract

Abstract Objective: To compare two different wavelengths of the surgical Contact Diode Laser (CDL) for producing a posterior laryngofissure in live pigs. Methods: Anesthetized pigs underwent a tracheostomy and an anterior laryngofissure through a cervicotomy. They were randomly selected for the CDL wavelength and power (980nm wavelength: Ppeak power of 10W, 15W, and 20W, or 1470nm wavelength: Ppeak 3W, 5W, 7W, 10W). At the end of the experiment, the laryngotracheal specimen was extracted and sent for histology and morphometry measurements (incision size, depth, area, and lateral thermal damage). Hemodynamic data and arterial blood gases were recorded during the incisions. Statistical analysis of the comparisons between the parameters and groups had a level of significance of p <0.05. Results: Twenty-six pigs were divided into CDL 980nm (n=11) and 1470nm (n=15). There was a larger incision area at the thyroid level in the 980nm CDL and a larger distance between borders in the tracheal level. There were no significant differences in the lateral thermal damage between the two groups and among the power levels tested. Conclusion: Both wavelengths tested showed similar results in the various combinations of power levels without significant differences in the lateral thermal damage. The posterior laryngofissure incision can be performed safely by combining both wavelengths at low and medium power levels.