Argon Laser Technique Removes Benign Eyelid Tumors With Less Tissue Damage

A modified method of performing argon laser therapy (ALT) for benign eyelid tumors can effectively treat large lesions on par with a surgical approach, while creating less damage to the surrounding tissue, according to findings published in BMC Ophthalmology.

Researchers conducted a study to analyze a modified argon laser technique as an alternative to surgery for benign eyelid tumors. The study took into account 19 patients (10 men, 9 women; mean age, 58.7 years; mean lesion size, 4.82 mm) with benign eyelid tumors treated with ALT between December 2014 and January 2020. The methods included staining the surface of the lesions, which were located mainly in the lower eyelid (58%), using a violet marker and subsequently performing low-energy argon laser photoablation. The researchers then applied a mean 312 spots (spot size ranging from 150 to 500 µm) with a power of 200 to 400 mW, and a duration between 0.1 and 0.2 seconds. 

The study shows that, in a mean follow-up period of 10.5 months, all eyelid tumors were successfully treated by a single session of laser therapy, and all patients reported satisfaction with the therapy and the cosmetic result. No complications were observed postoperatively, nor did any relapses occur during follow-up. Dermal nevi and papilloma were the most frequently treated lesions. 

This modified laser technique is different from the traditional technique in several ways, researchers explain. These include the use of a low laser power, increased absorption rate of laser energy, its ability to treat lesions of a larger size with a relatively low dose of energy, and its focus on increased accuracy.

“The use of slit-lamp biomicroscopy during laser treatment increases the accuracy of treatment, and hence it facilitates the selective ablation of targeted tissue while reducing unwanted damage to healthy tissue,” the researchers explain. 

The researchers note that argon laser treatment should be limited to benign lesions, and a period of follow-up is necessary to check for recurrence of malignant transformation after the laser procedure. Additionally, the laser procedure cannot be performed on those who cannot cooperate or maintain a sitting position. 

The novel approach explored in this study requires less than 5 minutes, causes little discomfort to patients postoperatively, and effectively removes benign eyelid tumors.  The study was limited by its retrospective nature and because histopathological examination was not possible for all patients.