The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Vol 96, 925-929, Copyright © 1988 by The American Association for Thoracic Surgery and The Western Thoracic Surgical Association
Removal of surgically induced fibrous arterial plaques by argon ion laser angiosurgery using a multifiber delivery system. An experimental study in the dog
BT Kjellstrom, AL Bylock, C Bott-Silverman, GL Engelmann, RG Gerrity, C Kittrell, RM Cothren, GB Hayes, MS Feld and JR Kramer
Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio.
Removal of intravascular atherosclerotic obstructions by laser irradiation
has gained the attention of many investigators, but has proven to be
considerably more difficult to accomplish than initially envisioned. We
tested, in an animal model, an argon ion laser delivery system that permits
control of (1) laser power, (2) exposure time, and (3) laser beam spot
size. The study was conducted on surgically, induced focal fibrous plaques
in the carotid arteries of nine dogs. Plaque removal, vessel patency, and
healing were evaluated angiographically and by light and electron
microscopy at intervals up to 60 days after treatment. Results showed that
intravascular obstructions could be removed, healing occurred, and vessels
remained patent for up to 60 days.