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Laser angioplasty versus balloon angioplasty: The need for imaging

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Abstract

The current state of clinical laser angioplasty is reviewed. Compared to balloon dilation at the beginning of the past decade, both peripheral and coronary laser angioplasty devices produce better results. Compared to current balloon angioplasty techniques, however, laser angioplasty does not seem to offer improved initial or long term results. Intravascular ultrasound imaging may help to improve laser ablation of atherosclerotic plaque. It remains to be established, however, whether precise debulking of the obstruction will result in a reduced restenosis rate compared to balloon angioplasty.

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  1. Experimental Cardiology Laboratory, Department of Cardiology, Heart-Lung Institute, University Hospital Utrecht, Room E02.562, Postbox 85500, 3508, GA Utrecht, The Netherlands

    Pieter C. Smits & Cornelius Borst

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Smits, P.C., Borst, C. Laser angioplasty versus balloon angioplasty: The need for imaging. Laser Med Sci 6, 223–233 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02030875

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