Computational analysis of linear energy modulation for laser thermal coagulation

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Physics
• Laser Medicine

Background:

• Accurate treatment planning and monitoring are crucial for safe and effective laser thermal coagulation (LTC).
• Predicting temperature distribution and thermal damage is essential for optimizing LTC procedures.
• Existing models may not fully capture the dynamic thermal responses during modulated laser application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a computational model for predicting temperature distribution and thermal damage during LTC.
• To investigate the efficacy of linear energy modulation in controlling thermal effects.
• To assess the feasibility of using computational models for real-time treatment monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Deployment of computational and experimental models based on linear energy modulation.
• Utilizing 1470-nm Gaussian laser emission with digital imaging and goniometry for confirmation.
• Maintaining tissue temperature between 65-75 °C with a
• 3.5 W fast slope
• laser modulation mode.

Main Results:

• The computational model predicted a thermally destructive volume of 0.23 cm³.
• Experimental results showed a comparable volume of 0.17 ± 0.05 cm³.
• The linear power reduction from 3.5 W to 0.2 W over 50 s effectively controlled tissue temperature.

Conclusions:

• The proposed computational model is a valuable tool for predicting tissue thermal responses during LTC.
• Linear energy modulation offers a controllable method for inducing precise thermal damage.
• Validated models can enhance the safety and efficacy of laser-based thermal therapies.