The role of laser in cardiac surgery

Abstract

With lasers tissue can be removed or coagulated. Laser coagulation has the same effect as radiofrequency or microwave applications. So far lasers are barely used in atrial fibrillation but it has been shown that a total block of the AV-node or a change of the PQ-time are possible with a percutaneous laser-catheter. Also the myocard can be coagulated if the laser radiation is delivered through the mitral valve without any damage to it. Short pulsed lasers produce shockwaves and thus mechanical injury to tissue. This mechanical damage to the myocard along with a controlled coagulation may lead to an interpretation of the effectiveness of TMLR.