Hot-tip laser. Results and complications.
The hot tip laser system for atheroablation has been used since mid-1984 as a device for broadening the indications for and extending the applicability of angioplasty in the management of lower-extremity atherosclerosis. It has been a controversial device. Although the system demonstrates that it can occasionally be useful for the management of occlusive as opposed to stenotic disease of the infrainguinal arteries, a close examination of the published data fails to demonstrate a consistent improvement in either the primary success or long-term patency rates for thermal energy applied to atheroma for recanalization of the lower extremity arteries.
Greenfield
A J
AJ
Department of Radiology, University Hospital, Boston University Medical Center, Mass. 02118.
D016342:Angioplasty, Laser / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001161:Arteriosclerosis / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000098:blood supply*; D014654:Vascular Patency