Re: laser angioplasty

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on July 28, 1998 at 12:34:20:

In Reply to: laser angioplasty posted by Morris Priwler on July 28, 1998 at 05:04:03:






Please advise the names of surgeons that perform laser angioplasty
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Dear Morris
I am not certain what you mean. Interventional cardiologists sometimes perform laser angioplasty; this is similar to a balloon angioplasty, but a laser is used to help clear out blockages. After initial enthusiasm, it is rarely used anymore, except in very unusual circumstances.
Some interventional cardiologists are experimenting with using lasers to drill tiny holes in the heart via a catheterization procedure; the hope is that this will improve blood flow to the heart. Likewise, some cardiothoracic surgeons are experimenting with lasers to drill holes in the heart during open heart surgery. These treatments are experimental and are only for people that have exhausted all other options for treating coronary artery disease.
The Cleveland Clinic performs all of the above procedures. Dr. Ellis and Dr. Whitlow have special expertise in these areas.