What Safety Precautions Are Recommended When Lasering in the Airway?

Lahiff, Michael J; Siddiqui, Sana H; Pasick, Luke J; Roy, Soham; Born, Hayley L · Laryngoscope · 2026

review · Level V

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Abstract

Airway laser surgery carries a uniquely elevated risk for operating room fire because endotracheal tubes, surgical materials, an oxygen-enriched environment, and laser ignition sources can all coexist in the upper aerodigestive tract. This Best Practice review synthesizes evidence-based strategies to mitigate these risks, including endotracheal tube optimization, oxidizer control, careful energy delivery, and team-based preparedness for fire prevention and emergency response.