title: [Arthroscopic synovectomy using the Neodymium-YAG laser].
abstract: Arthroscopic laser synovectomy consists of a mechanical abrasion of the superficial layers followed by a laser devitalization of the basal synovium. The Neodymium-YAG-laser is suitable for this purpose because of its depth of penetration in tissue and the transmission through quartz flexible fibers. In histological in-vivo-studies laser induced changes in the deep synovial layers could be verified. After a total of 50 arthroscopic laser procedures the clinical results of the first 15 laser synovectomies are analyzed in a follow-up period of 6 months. Compared to the preoperative condition the arthroscopic operation resulted in a significant improvement. A reduced hemorrhage is a specific advantage of this technique. Arthroscopic laser synovectomy is as effective as conventional open capsulosynovectomy preserving the advantages of arthroscopic surgery, a reduced morbidity, a low functional impairment and short rehabilitation periods.
authors.affiliation: Chirurgische Abteilung, St. Marien-Hospital, Gelsenkirchen-Buer.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Raunest
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Löhnert
mesh_terms: D001182:Arthroscopy; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D009354:Neodymium; D000074402:Synovectomy; D013583:Synovial Membrane / Q000473:pathology; D013585:Synovitis / Q000601:surgery*
chemical_list: D009354:Neodymium
vernacular_title: Arthroskopische Synovektomie unter Anwendung des Neodym-YAG-Laser.