Percutaneous laser photocoagulation of osteoid osteoma: Assessment of treatment in nine cases

Background: Osteoid osteoma is a benign bony neoplasm and its classic treatment is surgery. In the r ecent decades percutaneous laser therapy was suggested to be replaced by surgery. In this study we have reviewed the results of the first applications of interstitial laser photocoagulation (ILP) for treatment of osteoid osteoma in Iranian patients. Materials and Methods: In this case series study, we evaluated 9 known cases of osteoid osteoma that were referred for ILP from orthopedic section of Imam Khomeini hospital during 2001 and 2002. Diagnosis was confirmed by plain X-ray, CT, isotope & MR scan. ILP was done by interventional radiologists of medical imaging center. Percutaneous ILP was performed by Nd-Yag laser, using 400-1000 joules energy (according to nidus size) and adjusting on 2 watts power. Results: The procedure was successful in all patients. We had pain relief in 24 hours. Follow up from 5 months to one year showed no recurrence. Conclusion: The procedure is a safe and effective method for patients and could be applied for proper cases.