Carbon dioxide laser surgery of the lids and orbit

Abstract

The carbon dioxide laser is a surgical tool which has properties of cutting, vaporization, hemostasis and fine control. It can be used as a high precision hemostatic scalpel which leaves surrounding tissue undamaged by its energy. It is also capable of vaporization of surface lesions and welding of tissues. Use of the carbon dioxide laser is described for excision of certain orbital and eyelid tumors. It is particularly useful for anterior orbital tumors with a predilection for bleeding. Advantages and precautions in the use of the CO₂ laser are discussed.

Key Words:

• carbon dioxide laser
• eyelid tumors
• infrared
• portwine stains