Comparison of cortical bone ablations by using infrared laser wavelengths 2.9 to 9.2 ?m

Abstract

The use of wavelengths in the 6.1-microm amide I to 6.45-microm amide II region, with the pulse characteristics described, were the most efficient for cutting cortical bone and produced less collateral thermal injury than cutting with a surgical bone saw. This study confirms previous observations that the ablation mechanism below plasma threshold is consistent with an explosive process driven by internal vaporization of water in a confined space and demonstrates that ablation is enhanced by using wavelengths that target the protein matrix of cortical bone.