Efficacy and Safety of Photoangiolytic Laser of Phonotraumatic Lesions in Professional Voice Users: A Scoping Review

Objective: Treatment of benign vocal fold lesions (BVFLs) in professional voice users (PVUs) requires a balance between safety and restoration of phonatory function. Photoangiolytic lasers allow selective ablation of vascular structures, resulting in lesion involution. Prior studies support their safety and efficacy in the general population, but evidence supporting their use in PVUs is limited. The aim of this scoping review is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of photoangiolytic laser treatment of BVFLs in PVUs. Data source: Using PRISMA-ScR guidelines, research databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL) were queried through July 2025. Review methods: Records were screened in two rounds by two independent reviewers. Conflicts were resolved by a third reviewer (senior author). Data on study design, laser type, sample size, and outcomes were extracted and summarized. Results: A total of 1013 studies were identified, and 22 studies were included after full-text review. The most studied laser was KTP (36.3%), followed by PDL (18.2%) and TruBlue (9.1%), with 31.8% of studies comparing KTP and PDL. Vocal fold polyps were the most frequently studied lesion type (22.7%). Across studies, subjective (VHI, SVHI, GRBAS) and objective acoustic outcomes consistently improved. All complications (rate 5–10%) were minor and temporary: transient hoarseness, edema, or self-limited bleeding. Conclusion: Professional voice users with BVFLs require treatment to restore high-level phonatory function while maintaining safety and preventing long-term complications. This scoping review provides evidence of the safety and efficacy of photoangiolytic laser treatment of BVFLs in PVUs.