title: Laser-assisted fluoroscopic puncture: a new technique for accessing the kidney.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We developed a laser pointer device that is mounted on the image intensifier of a C-arm fluoroscope. The laser-assisted fluoroscopic puncture technique (LAFPT) is an alternative method of accessing the kidney.
  
  
  METHODS
  The LAFPT was assessed both in an in vitro model and in a series of cases. The in vitro model was composed of Foley balloons filled with contrast medium of different volumes (2-6 mL) embedded in silicone pads. The total fluoroscopy times and attempts required for a successful puncture with LAFPT were compared with those of conventional fluoroscopic access.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The number of attempts required to puncture the 2-mL balloons was significantly greater with the conventional fluoroscopic technique than with LAFPT. The fluoroscopy time in vitro was reduced 50% with LAFPT. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the time required for the two techniques in the clinical series.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The laser-assisted fluoroscopic puncture technique allows accurate positioning of a needle with reduced radiation exposure.
authors.affiliation: 19 Mayis University School of Medicine, Department of Urology, Kurupelit, Samsun, Turkey. cybilen@yahoo.com
authors.forename: C Y
authors.initials: CY
authors.lastname: Bilen
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Aşçi
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Sarikaya
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Büyükalpelli
authors.forename: A F
authors.initials: AF
authors.lastname: Yilmaz
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D005471:Fluoroscopy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D007834:Lasers; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009339:Needles; D011829:Radiation Dosage