Laryngeal Papillomatosis - Treatment

Treatment

Traditional surgery and carbon dioxide laser surgery, a "no touch" removal of affected tissue, are forms of treatment for laryngeal papillomatosis. Carbon dioxide laser removal is the most common removal method. The carbon dioxide laser must be used precisely to prevent scarring, fibrosis, and laryngeal web malformation. In children, carbon dioxide laser is effective for removing papillomas on the larynx. Photodynamic therapy controls tumors by using targeted dyes and bright light to illuminate tumors. In this procedure, a doctor injects a light sensitive dye that is only absorbed by the tumors. Then the doctor activates the dye using a bright light, and the tumors are eliminated. This procedure has also been able to decrease the number of tumors that reoccur. Another method is tracheotomy, which reroutes air around the affected area. An incision is made in the front of the patient's neck, and a breathing tube is inserted through a hole (stoma) into the windpipe. The patient is then able to breathe through the tube. Although this is usually temporary, some patients must use the tube indefinitely. This method should be avoided if at all possible, since insertion of a breathing tube may cause the tumors to form as far down as the lungs. Many Antiviral drugs like Cidofovir have been used to treat laryngeal papillomatosis, but none completely stops the tumors from growing. Most antivirals are injected to control the frequency of tumor growth. The efficacy of the same is debated and subject to research. Some side effects of antivirals include dizziness, headaches, and body aches. Regardless of the treatment used, the tumors will reoccur. In severe cases, tumors may occur once or twice a month. In less severe cases, tumors may occur once or twice a year.