A Comparison of the CO₂, Argon, and KTP/532 Lasers in the Videolaseroscopic Treatment of Endometriosis

Several surgical lasers are available currently for laparoscopic use, including the carbon dioxide (CO₂), argon, and potassium-titanyl-phosphate (KTP/532 nm) lasers. These lasers each have different properties that offer advantages and disadvantages in the treatment of endometriosis. In the present study, 120 patients with different stages of endometriosis were divided into three groups of 40 patients. Each group underwent videolaseroscopy using one of the three lasers listed above. All three lasers appear to be safe and effective for the laparoscopic treatment of endometriosis. There were no complications experienced, and satisfactory results were obtained in all three groups. This paper discusses andcompares the properties of the CO₂, argon, and KTP/532 lasers and the results in each of the three groups of patients. Although the number of patients is too small to make a definite conclusion, it appears that the results of argon and KTP/532 lasers are identical. The outcome for pain relief and fertility appears to be better with CO₂ lasers.