Argon laser vascular tissue fusion: current status and future perspectives

Rodney A. White M.D.; George E. Kopchok M.D.

doi:10.1117/12.43945

1 June 1991 Argon laser vascular tissue fusion: current status and future perspectives

Rodney A. White M.D., George E. Kopchok M.D.

Proceedings Volume 1422, Lasers in Dermatology and Tissue Welding; (1991) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.43945
Event: Optics, Electro-Optics, and Laser Applications in Science and Engineering, 1991, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

Tissue fusion by laser energy is an intriguing and very promising new applications for laser technology. In comparison to using high laser energy to ablate tissue as in the angioplasty application, laser tissue fusion is possible in any soft tissue by delivering appropriate low levels of energy to the opposed tissue surfaces. This technology is particularly appealing for vascular applications in making sutureless blood vessel anastomosisand for securing the endpoints of endarterectomies and dissection planes. Although there have been limited evaluations of this technology, the preliminary experimental and clinical data is very promising for continued development and application. Vascular tissue fusion or welding by lasers is performed by directing a low energy beam at the opposed edges of the repair. The energy is applied by moving the beam back and forth along the fusion line or, in certain cases, by delivering the energy in "spot" applications. Vessel sealing is apparent in the majority of fusions to the trained eye, as is nonunion caused by inadequate energy delivery, or tissue coagulation or vaporization from excessive energy exposure. Laser repairs can be fashioned in time intervals comparable to or slightly longer than those required for suture repairs. Precision of tissue apposition at the time of fusion is a critical parameter which affects the rate of healing and tensile strength of tissue welds. A gap between the vessel edges or blood at the interface compromises weld strength.

Citation Download Citation

Rodney A. White M.D. and George E. Kopchok M.D. "Argon laser vascular tissue fusion: current status and future perspectives", Proc. SPIE 1422, Lasers in Dermatology and Tissue Welding, (1 June 1991); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.43945

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