IN-VITRO STUDIES AND COMPUTER-SIMULATIONS TO ASSESS THE USE OF A DIODE-LASER (850 NM) FOR LASER-INDUCED THERMOTHERAPY (LITT)

Background and Objective: This study investigated the feasibility of 8 50 nm diode laser-induced thermotherapy (LITT), a new procedure provid ing local hyperthermia and photocoagulation, a minimally invasive trea tment of tumors, and other disorders such as benign prostate hyperplas ia. Study Design/Material and Methods: An improved fiber optic diffuse r inserted through a catheter was used to irradiate prostate, Liver, a nd kidney tissue in-vitro. Experimental results were compared with pre dictions from mathematical simulations based on measured optical tissu e parameters. Results: After 10 minutes of irradiation with 2-4.6 W CW laser power, sizable coagulation diameters had been achieved. In pros tate and kidney tissue, temperature rises and coagulation diameters af ter laser irradiation were found to be smaller than in liver tissue. T hose tissues also had a higher threshold for carbonization, thus reduc ing the risk of damage to the delivery system. Conclusion: The data su ggest that a low power diode laser can be recommended for use in LITT to treat prostate and kidney tissue. (C) 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.