Laser-assisted balloon angioplasty

Abstract

At present, the precise applications and indications for laser angioplasty are poorly defined. The method offers a new and effective technique for transluminal recanalization of occluded arterial segments. By creating a lumen to allow the passage of a guidewire across a segment of occluded vessel without creating a dissection, laser angioplasty provides a valuable adjunct to the technology of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty. Laser techniques are being investigated extensively in surgical patients and, although the long-term patency rates are disappointing at present, the technique shows promise as an alternative to bypass operations in poor-risk patients or those with unfavorable surgical anatomy. Improved results of this minimally invasive technique in recanalizing stenoses and short lesions may ultimately redefine the criteria for intervention in this group of patients. We are optimistic that the technique will be developed to offer the vascular surgeon a new modality for treating a larger segment of the patient population suffering from occlusive peripheral vascular disease.