New laser and angioscopic technologies in medicine

The goal of this chapter is to describe the evolution and implementation of several new interventional technologies which expand the capabilities for less invasive coronary artery intervention. These technologies, including excimer laser angioplasty and angioscopy, are based on the use of new fiberoptics and laser technology. While the application of these technologies may appear unrelated, each specialty has borrowed technology and techniques from other disciplines to develop less invasive forms of therapy.