Nd:YAG laser therapy for palliation of recurrent squamous cell carcinomas in the oral cavity.

Background and Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcome of laser photo-thermoablation for palliation of recurrent squamous cell tumors of the oral cavity. Study Design/Patients and Methods: Seventeen patients were treated with the Nd:YAG laser (power output was 50 W) delivered through a curved oral handpiece. Results: Ten patients are alive, 7 with tumor remission, and 3 with persistent disease with an average follow-up of 16 months (range=2-36). A total of 29 tumor sites received laser treatment with 17 (58%) completely ablated. Stratified by tumor site Nd:YAG treatment led to complete local response in 8/10 buccal mucosa, 2/5 retromolar trigone, 2/2 tongue, 2/5 gingiva, 1/2 floor of mouth, 2/4 hard palate. Conclusions: Nd:YAG laser treatment of recurrent oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma can be performed safely and repeated as needed to achieve tumor palliation. However, extended follow-up may be needed before convincing evidence of long-term therapeutic benefits is obtained. (C) 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.