[Coronary laser angioplasty]

Experimental studies have confirmed the feasibility of removing thrombotic material and atheromatous plaques with laser energy. Secondary to the heat generated at the site of conventional, continuous-wave laser radiation, thermic lesions of the vascular wall can be observed as adverse reactions. In the clinical setting, these lesions could prove to be of substantial potential danger. The energy emitted from the excimer laser, in the lower UV range, does not result in thermic damage. The luminal widening rendered is well delineated and the newly-created surfaces are relatively smooth. The extent of ablation is highly predictable. Problems dealing with transmissions of the UV laser energy remain to be solved. Nevertheless, high-energy, pulsed NdYAG- or argon laser systems, at least for medium-term periods, would appear to represent a useful alternative.