Development of a fiber optic delivery system for the application of laser in vascular diseases

A fiber optic laser delivery system using a continuous wave Nd:YAG laser has been developed for the recanalisation of occluded peripheral arteries. The laser catheter was designed around a 600 μm all silica fiber and a metal contact tip. The design incorporates provision for cooling and contrast injection. The system was evaluated in an in vitro model for vascular blockage using bovine muscle tissue as block material. The optimal power was found to be between 10 W and 20 W. Animal trials were done in induced blocks in canine arteries. After successful animal experiments the delivery system was used for a limited number of clinical procedures. The power required for creating a channel of diameter 2.5 mm was found to be slightly lower compared to in vitro experiments