Artificial sapphire probe for contact photocoagulation and tissue vaporization with the Nd:YAG laser.

Abstract

A contact artificial sapphire, developed for use with the Nd:YAG laser, allows the performance of open surgery (laser probe) and has endoscopic applications for the treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding (micro laser tip) and tumors (micro laser rod). Advantages of this contact irradiation include precision of surgical technique, minimal tissue damage, and excellent hemostatic and cutting capabilities, with low backscattering of laser energy.