Laser excision of a mucocele: A case report

A mucous cyst (mucocele, mucous retention cyst, ranula, and epulis) is usually a painless, thin sac on the inner surface of the lips. It contains clear fluid. It is painless but can be bothersome. The cyst is thought to be caused due to sucking of the lip membranes between the teeth. A mucous cyst is common and harmless. However, if left untreated, it can organize and form a permanent bump on the inner surface of the lip. A mucous cyst is called ranula when it occurs on the floor of the mouth and epulis when it occurs on the gums. The sac may also be formed around the jewellery (piercings) that has been inserted into the lips or the tongue. This article highlights the use of lasers in the treatment of the excision of mucocele.