Histologic Evaluation of Blood Vessels Sealed with 1,470-nm Diode Laser: Determination of Adequate Condition for Laser Vessel Sealing

Introduction Energy-based devices allow for a more rapid and efficient ligation of blood vessels during operations. In the present study, we evaluated the feasibility of a laser as an alternative energy source for the vessel sealing system and determined the optimal condition of laser for an effective vessel sealing through histologic examination. Materials and Methods The arteries (5 mm diameter) harvested from porcine legs were compressed between two glass-slides to eliminate its luminal space and were irradiated with 1,470-nm diode laser under various sealing conditions, including laser power (5-30 W), irradiation time (5 or 10 seconds), and focus mode (focus or defocus). Subsequently, the irradiated vessels were fixed in 4% formaldehyde and then processed to paraffin block. The paraffinized sample was sectioned and stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histological evaluation. Results The extent of tissue change was positively correlated with duration and power of laser. In defocus mode, the irradiated vessels showed sufficient tissue denaturation for sealing effect without severe tissue destruction. Moreover, among the various conditions of irradiation, laser power between 15 and 20 W, as well as exposure time of 5 seconds were appropriate for sealing the blood vessels. Conclusion Adequate power and irradiation duration of laser can render blood vessels to be sealed effectively, although the higher power of laser may be required to cut the vessels.