Selection of 1.94-µm thulium fiber laser parameters for the submucosal coagulation of the inferior turbinates

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Medical treatment often provides only short-term relief and is ineffective in many cases. Although surgical interventions for vasomotor rhinitis are effective, they are also associated with significant bleeding, nasal tamponade, and hospitalization. AIM: This study aimed to determine the optimal parameters for laser treatment using a 1.94-µm wavelength on nasal turbinates in vasomotor rhinitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The coagulation potential of the 1.94-µm wavelength on calf kidney tissue was investigated to guide the selection of laser parameters for nasal turbinates. Interstitial coagulation was performed on calf kidney tissue at power levels ranging from 1 to 5 W, with an interval of 1 W. The fiber movement speed was set at 4 mm/s. Each power level was tested five times for statistical analysis, and 10 samples were obtained for histological assessment. RESULTS: With interstitial exposure, the largest coagulation area was observed at 3 W, and the overall diameter of the effect was on average 2.57 ± 0.1 mm. CONCLUSIONS: The optimal balance between coagulation and ablation was achieved at a power level of 3 W during interstitial exposure.