Lasers in Rhinology—An Update

Abstract

Objectives: A wide and evolving range of lasers and their applications often makes it difficult for a busy surgeon to choose the ideal laser for a specific indication. With this in mind, this article aims to summarize the most recent literature concerning laser application in rhinology. Methods: A literature search from 2000 to 2020 using the PubMed database was employed. Keywords used included “laser,” “rhinology,” “endonasal endoscopic surgery,” “hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia,” “rhinitis,” “refractory rhinitis,” “Inferior turbinate hypertrophy,” “dacryocystorhinostomy,” “septoplasty,” “cartilage reshaping” and “choanal atresia.” The most up to date studies published for each rhinology condition that could potentially be treated with laser surgery was included. Results: Rhinological conditions appropriate for laser applications are discussed. We identified articles related to a number of applications including hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, rhinitis, turbinate surgery, dacryocystorhinostomy, septoplasty, choanal atresia, and sphenopalatine artery ligation, paying attention to the outcomes of the studies and their limitations. Conclusions: There is currently no one-size-fits-all laser and therefore being up to date on the latest clinical application results can help the clinician decide which are the best treatments to offer their patients.