Erbium,Chromium:Yttrium-Scandium-Gallium-Garnet Laser-assisted Excision of Peripheral Giant Cell Granuloma

Abstract

Peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) is a benign reactive softtissue lesion of the anterior mandible. It is a common giant cell lesion of the oral cavity whose histogenesis still continues to be a topic of debate. Clinically, the lesion is soft in consistency generally not measuring more than 2 cm and rarely causes bone or root resorption unlike central giant cell granuloma (CGCG). The treatment is usually local surgical excision down to underlying bone along with removal of any existing etiological factor to minimize risk of recurrence. Existing literature is sparse on the pros and cons of the use of a surgical laser in the management of such giant cell lesions. With the advent of new technology, lasers have taken the sheen away from scalpel. We preferred the erbium,chromium:yttrium-scandium-galliumgarnet (Er,Cr:YSGG) laser with a wavelength of 2780 nm which is well absorbed by water, hence minimizing any thermal damage to the soft tissues. Probably, this case report might be a first of its kind highlighting the use of an Er,Cr:YSGG laser for the excision of PGCG. Hence, this article is intended to highlight the clinical presentation and differential diagnosis of PGCG with special emphasis on the beneficial aspects of managing such lesions with Er,Cr:YSGG laser.