Application of Laser for Vaporization of Atherosclerotic Disease

Atherosclerotic disease accounts for significant morbidity, disability and mortality in man. As the disease progressively narrows the arterial lumen, blood flow is decreased to vital organs and structures such as the brain, heart, kidneys and leg muscles. The disease may also predispose afflicted vessels to thrombosis and embolism. Hence, cerebrovascular accidents, myocardial infarction, renal infarction, ischemia and gangrene of the lower extremities are all conditions that are frequently a consequence of atherosclerosis. Each year in the United States alone, an estimated 500,000 individuals are victims of stroke and 164,000 die; and approximately 1,500,000 develop myocardial infarction and 559,000 die1.