A New Nd: YAG Laser-Bearing Angioscope is Useful for Visualizing and Treating Lesions of the Superior Vena Cava and the Right-Sided Chambers of the Heart

Abstract

The utility of a prototype Nd:YAG laser-bearing angioscope was evaluated for the diagnosis and treatment of neoplastic lesions of superior vena cava (SVC) and right-sided chambers of the heart in dogs. The angioscope had a balloon tightly fixed to the tip with heat shrink tubing and suture ligation. Approximately 96% of the Nd:YAG laser energy penetrated the balloon without rupture when the balloon was inflated with saline solution and was in direct contact with the target. The internal surfaces of the SVC, inferior vena cava, right atrium, tricuspid valve, right ventricle, and main pulmonary artery were visualized clearly by this angioscopic technique. The Nd:YAG laser was guided successfully under direct vision and a surgically transplanted neoplasm in the SVC was irradiated. Tumor coagulation was confirmed macroscopically and microscopically. This new angioscope requires further improvement, specifically, to decrease its diameter and improve the durability of the balloon.