CANINE CHOLEDOCHOTOMY CLOSURE WITH DIODE LASER-ACTIVATED FIBRINOGEN SOLDER

Background. An alternative to mechanical stapling or hand suturing is needed to permit laparoscopic common bile duct exploration. We evaluat ed the strength and healing characteristics of canine choledochotomies sealed with a fibrinogen solder and a diode laser. Methods. After cre ation of a 0.5 cm longitudinal choledochotomy, the edges were coapted with forceps, and a fibrinogen solder mixed with indocyanine green dye was applied. The solder was sealed in place with an 810 nm diode lase r (125 W/cm(2)). Results. Immediate mean leakage pressure was 264 +/- 7 mm Hg compared with 83 +/- 66 mm Hg in suture controls. This increas ed to 364 +/- 115 mm Hg at 2 days and was more than 510 mm Hg at 7 day s. On histologic examination rapid reabsorption of the solder with no signs of inflammaion or stenosis was seen. No episodes of dehiscence o r peritonitis occurred. Conclusions. Laser soldering provides a watert ight choledochotomy closure with adequate immediate strength allowing a reliable, technically feasible common bile duct exploration via a la paroscopic approach.