Laser thermal angioplasty: from the experimental model to early human experience.

The use of flexible fiberoptic fibers to transmit laser energy for the ablation of atherosclerotic obstructions has significant potential in the cardiovascular area; initial clinical trials indicate that some of the early limitations of laser angioplasty can be solved. Laser thermal angioplasty has now been clinically demonstrated to be a safe and effective adjunct to balloon angioplasty for the management of symptomatic femoropopliteal disease. Based on the earliest experience of laser thermal angioplasty in human coronary arteries, the procedure is feasible. It seems clear that considerable technologic advancements in catheter design are required to improve the safety and efficacy of this new technique.