The Use of Carbon Dioxide Laser in Female Urology

Abstract

ABSTRACT

The carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser can be used to treat a variety of soft tissue disorders encountered by the urogynecologist. Urethral caruncles, red fleshy masses located at the urethral meatus, can be excised and vaporized using the CO₂ laser. Distal urethral diverticula, a common urologic disorder in women, can be marsupialized using the CO₂ laser. The epithelial lining of the diverticulum can be vaporized, thereby decreasing the risk of recurrence. Distal urethral stenosis may lead to symptoms associated with urethral syndrome and can be caused by a fibroelastic band of tissue. The CO₂ laser can be used to destroy this abnormal tissue band, increasing the caliber of the urethral meatus and improving symptoms. This review details the diagnostic workup of these disorders and describes the surgical management using the CO₂ laser. (J GYNECOL SURG 7:11, 1991)