Laser recannalization of atheromatous vessels using fiber optics.
A laser endoscope was devised using optic fibers in order to provide a means of visualization and removal of atheromatous plaques from arteries in cadavers and experimental animals. Atheromatous plaques were satisfactorily lased off in a few seconds, although contraction of lased vessels was observed. A self-focusing fiber was shown to provide laser access to and visualization of the body via a single optic fiber of feasibly less than 0.2 mm diameter.
D000800:Angioplasty, Balloon / Q000295:instrumentation; D000818:Animals; D001018:Aortic Diseases / Q000601:surgery; D006328:Cardiac Catheterization; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000601:surgery*; D019723:Endoscopes; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology / Q000295:instrumentation; D020699:Gastroscopes; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D055100:Optical Fibers