Lasers: applications in cardiovascular atherosclerotic disease

Laser angioplasty is a new, yet experimental intervention in the vascular setting. This technique forces artificially stimulated electrons to generate light energy. This energy can be used to achieve tissue abatement by a variety of mechanisms. Reducing resultant complications from this technique is the goal of current laser research. Techniques like angioscopy, photochemical interaction, pulsing modes, and alternative catheter designs have the common goal of improved tissue abatement, with minimal or the absence of secondary normal tissue injury. This population of patients requires comprehensive nursing care aimed at meeting the patient's nursing diagnoses and collaborative medical problems. In this manner, both the acute needs of the patient during hospitalization and his or her functional needs out of the hospital are identified. A plan of action is then formulated, performed, and evaluated.