CO2-laser in the removal of a plexiform neurofibroma from the eyelid

We present a child with neurofibromatosis type I (NF-I) who underwent excis ion of a large upper lid neurofibroma using a CO2-laser. Plexiform neurofib romas are notorious for their bleeding tendency and the inability to achiev e complete surgical excision. The CO2-laser is an adjunct to achieving bett er hemostasis and delineation of the tissue in the absence of natural tissu e planes caused by the tumor's diffuse mode of growth. Using the CO2-laser achieves better cosmesis, while reducing operation time and limiting compli cations.