Abstract
To improve the result of peripheral laser recanalization (less perforation with wider tunnels of vaporization), we used the technique of sapphire laser angioplasty. A Nd:YAG laser with continuous emission was connected to a catheter with a 600 mum fiber and a sapphire probe to its extremity (1.8-3 mm in diameter). Treatment was performed on 127 patients with severe stenosis or occlusion of peripheral arteries (iliac, femoral, or popliteal arteries). Recanalization was obtained in 102 cases (80%) and was further embellished by balloon dilatation. The rate of success decreased proportionally with the length of occlusions (93% for 3 cm, 33% for 15 cm and more). Most failures were due to wall perforation or wall entry of the probe; passage of the sapphire tip was rarely blocked by the occlusion. At follow-up, 26.4% of arteries were reoccluded after 2 months. laser angioplasty with a sapphire tip can totally recanalize occluded arteries with low rate of failure and complications.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
