Laser angioplasty with angioscopic guidance in humans

An experimental study was conducted in 11 patients to evaluate the immediate effects of laser recanalization during peripheral arterial bypass surgery. Angioscopy allowed precise localization and identification of the occlusion. A 1 or 2 mm optical fiber probe was used. Laser energy was regulated using the least amount of energy necessary for recanalization. New vascular channels were made in 10 of the 11 patients. After recanalization the arterial segment was excised for histologic evaluation. Smaller channel diameters were made with the 1 mm probe (1.5 +/- 0.6 mm) than with the 2 mm probe (3 +/- 0.3 mm) (p less than 0.05). Flow through channels (mean pressure 80 mm Hg) made with the 2 mm probe was greater than that through channels made with the 1 mm probe (150 +/- 102 versus 19.7 +/- 10 cc/min) (p less than 0.05). The amount of debris formed was small with both probes. Vascular perforations were less frequent with the 2 mm probe (two of nine arteries) compared with the 1 mm probe (four of four arteries). Successful recanalization with flow rates expected to maintain vascular patency was achieved only with the 2 mm probe. Histologic studies at nonperforated sites demonstrated that the elastica of the artery appeared to be preserved whereas the overlying plaque and underlying media were thermally disrupted. This suggests that the elastic tissue acts as an optical window allowing the argon beam to go through it without causing morphologic damage. Except for fresh thrombus, atheromas including calcific plaque and old organized thrombus were readily vaporized. These results are encouraging for the use of the laser for vascular recanalization in humans.