Role of KTP-532 laser in management of oral submucous fibrosis.

INTRODUCTION: Oral submucous fibrosis is a chronic disease characterised by progressive inability to open the mouth. Various treatment modalities are available for its management, but these have largely been ineffective.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nine cases of oral submucous fibrosis underwent a release procedure using a KTP-532 laser, from March 2005 to January 2006, within the ENT-head and neck surgery department of a tertiary centre.

RESULTS: Pre- and post-operative mouth-opening was compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test, and a significant difference observed (Z = -2.690, p = 0.007). Follow up over an average period of 12 months showed encouraging results.

CONCLUSION: This preliminary study indicated that adequate release of oral submucous fibrosis can be achieved by using a KTP-532 laser release procedure, with minimal morbidity and satisfactory results. These promising results should encourage more widespread use of this technique in the management of this condition.