Possibilities and problems of using the holmium laser in ENT

Hans-Jochen Foth; Thomas G. Barton; Karl Hoermann M.D.; Matthias Christ; Norbert Stasche M.D.

doi:10.1117/12.184955

7 September 1994 Possibilities and problems of using the holmium laser in ENT

Hans-Jochen Foth, Thomas G. Barton, Karl Hoermann M.D., Matthias Christ, Norbert Stasche M.D.

Proceedings Volume 2128, Laser Surgery: Advanced Characterization, Therapeutics, and Systems IV; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.184955
Event: OE/LASE '94, 1994, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

Infrared lasers are the most favored systems for laser micro surgery. The reason is due to the short penetration depth of these emission wavelengths in water. The application of pulsed lasers with sufficient short pulse widths prevents the diffusion of heat from the irradiated volume to the surrounding tissue. Therefore, using pulsed lasers rather than cw-lasers reduces the damage zone significantly. In contrast to the radiation of the CO₂-laser and the Er:YAG laser, there are quartz fibers available for the Ho:YAG laser. These fibers are biocompatible and offer a high spectral transmission and a high laser damage threshold. In paranasal sinus and middle ear surgery both the fiberoptic transmission and the possibility of bone ablation are preconditions for an optimal laser use. Because the beam profile of the laser radiation is determined by the fiber, the question arises for the quality of the obtained incisions and for optimal working conditions.

Citation Download Citation

Hans-Jochen Foth, Thomas G. Barton, Karl Hoermann M.D., Matthias Christ, and Norbert Stasche M.D. "Possibilities and problems of using the holmium laser in ENT", Proc. SPIE 2128, Laser Surgery: Advanced Characterization, Therapeutics, and Systems IV, (7 September 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.184955

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