Dental impression silicone putty in transoral laser laryngeal surgery: prevention of oral complications

OBJECTIVE: To describe a new method to improve the exposure of the surgical field and to protect the oral cavity during transoral laser micro-surgery of the larynx. METHODS: Dental Impression Silicone Putty (DISP) was employed as an alternative to traditional mouthguards. RESULTS: DISP mouthguards perfectly fit to each patient, reduce encumbrance in the mouth, and reduce pressure on the teeth; disadvantages are minimal. CONCLUSIONS: Although clinical studies are necessary to demonstrate the efficacy of the method in reducing the incidence of oral complications, DISP mouthguards represent a significant aid for laryngeal exposure.