Transoral CO2 laser resection of an extensive nasopharyngeal and oral teratoma

Background: Teratomas are quite rare congenital tumours, especially originating from the skull base in the region of the nasopharynx (1:40 000). Patient: We report on a premature 36-weeks old girl with an extensive nasopharyngeal and oral teratoma. Method: With CO2 laser and micro-endoscopic techniques the tumour was successfully resected directly via the transoral route without needing external incisions. Results and Conclusions: These techniques, and particularly the use of CO2 laser, allow gentle resection of nasopharyngeal teratomas with only moderate bleeding. General pathological aspects, clinical symptoms and update management of teratomas in the head and neck area are discussed, based on this case. CO2 laser in conjunction with microscope and videoendoscope seems to offer an advantage compared to resection with conventional instruments alone.