Evaluation of diode laser for excision of canine cutaneous tumours

The study was conducted for evaluation and comparison of single and dual wavelength of diode laser with conventional excision of cutaneous tumours in dogs. 12 dogs suffering from cutaneous tumours were divided in 3 groups each consist of 4 dogs. In group I excision of tumours done by conventional scalpel method, in group II excision of tumours done by diode laser at wavelength 980 nm and power 10 W. In group III excision of tumours done by diode laser at dual wavelength (810 nm + 980 nm) and power 10-12 W. Incisional quality was observed excellent in group I without charring followed group III and group II along with charring of incised margins. On histopathological examination, incised skin margins in group I observed regular well defined with intact epidermis and dermis. In group II the margins were irregular with moderate charring. In group III the margins were irregular with severe charring. The mean values of intraoperative bleeding were reduced significantly (p<0.05) in group II and group III as compared to group I. The mean values of time required for complete excision of tumour was reduced significantly (p<0.05) in group II and group III as compared to group I The mean values of wound assessment score reduced significantly (p< 0.05) in group I from day 3 to 14. Duration of wound healing was reduced significantly (p<0.05) in group I and group II as compared to group III. Scar score showed significant (p<0.05) difference between group I and group III on day 14 and 21 postoperatively. It was concluded that diode laser at 980 nm on 10 W and diode laser at 810 nm + 980 nm on 10-12 W were found superior than scalpel in terms of minimal intraoperative bleeding and less time utilized for excision of tumours.