Comparison of histological changes induced on oral mucosa and skin by the use of mono polar electrosurgery and CO2 laser in a porcine experimental model

SUMMARY: Introduction: Upon use of monopolar electrosurgery or CO2-laser high-frequency, current or infrared light respectively are converted to heat, inducing beneficial and undesired tissue effects. Purpose: This study aimed to investigate histologically and immunohistochemically the effects of monopolar electrosurgery and CO2-laser upon skin and oral mucosa and to compare them with those of scalpel. Material and methods: 5 healthy swine were used. Standardized incisions were made by scalpel and the above instruments at 3 surgical sites. Results: Lateral thermal damage to CO2-laser-incisions and the inflammatory extent in skin sections were significantly greater than scalpel incisions, but inflammation did not differ significantly between electrosurgical and scalpel incisions. Conclusions: CO2-laser was associated with greater thermal damage, impinging or epithelial proliferation and postoperative inflammation.