A neodymium:YAG fiber delivery system for interstitial photothermal therapy.
We describe here a highly durable 600-mu optical fiber with a 20-mm frosted distal tip protected by a smooth transparent cover that is capable of remaining in contact with tissue for prolonged periods. When used with a neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser, the active fiber surface diffuses optical radiation in a radial pattern, delivering up to 40 W power, and thus providing consistent and uniform interstitial photothermal therapy.  Preliminary animal studies have demonstrated the feasibility of using these fibers to treat a variety of soft-tissue tumors, including benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Department of Urology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston.
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DE
Johnson
M
M
Slatkine
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DC
Cromeens
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D
Mead
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Konwitz
D000818:Animals; D004285:Dogs; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D008099:Liver / Q000473:pathology; D008954:Models, Biological; D009354:Neodymium; D010789:Phototherapy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D011467:Prostate / Q000473:pathology; D015019:Yttrium