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3 μm CW lasers for myringotomy and microsurgery
Kurt J Linden1, Christian P Pfeffer2, John Gary Sousa3
1Spire Corporation, One Patriots Park, Bedford, MA, USA 01730.
Summary
Continuous wave (CW) Er:YAG lasers show promise for myringotomy and otologic microsurgery. Further power increases are needed for optimal clinical application of this laser technology.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Otolaryngology
- Laser Technology
Background:
- Myringotomy and otologic microsurgery require precise tools.
- Pulsed lasers can cause undesirable acoustic effects.
- Development of novel laser systems is ongoing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate 3 μm continuous wave (CW) lasers for myringotomy and microsurgery.
- To assess the efficacy and safety of Er:YAG lasers in otologic procedures.
- To investigate laser-tissue interactions for surgical applications.
Main Methods:
- Investigated two CW lasers: Er-doped fiber laser (2.76 μm) and Er:YAG solid-state laser (2.94 μm).
- Both lasers optically pumped by 970 nm diode lasers.
- Performed myringotomies on guinea pigs using the Er:YAG laser and examined ablated tissues histologically.
Main Results:
- Er:YAG laser emitted >1 W CW power at 2.94 μm, coinciding with peak water absorption.
- CW operation avoided acoustic shocks associated with pulsed lasers.
- Histology confirmed Er:YAG laser's potential for myringotomy, but higher power (≥2 W) is recommended.
Conclusions:
- The CW Er:YAG laser is a viable candidate for myringotomy and potentially otologic microsurgery.
- Further development is needed to increase laser power for enhanced surgical efficacy.
- This laser technology offers a promising alternative to existing surgical tools.
