In vitro tissue effects of a combined Ho : YAG/Nd : YAG laser: Sprinkling of tissue fragments by Ho : YAG laser light may be problematic for oncological interventions

Background and Objective: Surgery of soft tissue, for example, of the tongu e or the Liver, requires a cutting and coagulating device. Therefore, a com bined Ho:YAG/Nd:YAG laser providing the laser beam of both systems together in one bare fiber seems to be useful. Study Design/Materials and Methods: We studied the effect of such a laser s ystem in vitro on tongues of pigs. Results: Combined application of both lasers results in vitro in a thicker coagulation zone in soft tissue (tongue). Tissue fragments possibly contain ing vital cells are sprinkled by the pulsed energy of the Ho:YAG: laser up to a distance of 20 cm. Conclusion: Using the pulsed Ho:YAC: laser for oncologic interventions seem s to be problematic. Combined laser effect in vivo may result in better hem ostasis. Lasers Surg. Med. 25:396-400, 1999. (C) 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.