Nd:YAG laser irradiation to intraluminal mass lesions of the superior vena cava under laser balloon angioscopy in an experimental canine model.

A laser balloon angioscopic procedure was developed in a canine model for intraluminal mass lesions in the superior vena cava, using an endoscope bearing a very thin balloon through which Nd:YAG laser could penetrate. The balloon was made from artificially modified natural latex rubber and well expanded with saline infused through a biopsy channel. The endoscopic image of the object obtained through direct contact of the balloon expanded with saline was clear enough to observe the internal surface or branches in not only normal, but also pathological conditions of the canine SVC. The Nd:YAG laser was able to be successfully irradiated through the balloon using this procedure which, although still in its preliminary stage, may be a useful clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic tool of the future.