Innovative Laser System Facilitates Soft-Tissue Procedures

The system is intended for procedures that include debridement of both healthy and diseased tissue, soft tissue release, tendon transfer, incision, excision, coagulation and hemostasis, and nerve and vascular repair, in both in the upper and lower extremities. The system also cuts hard-tissue as fast as conventional drills, but without the discomfort or risk of cross contamination.

The Er,Cr:YSGG laser cuts tissues by energizing water molecules within the target and from the water sprayed on the tissue surface. From 5 to 100 pulses of YSGG laser energy are emitted each second from the tip of the hand piece along with the fine water spray. Laser photons energize the combined water molecules within the target tissue; when the energized water molecules vaporize, a biological and cool ablation of both hard and soft tissues occurs.

A graphical user interface controls dozens of preset laser-assisted clinical procedures, controlled via a "Point and Perform" interface that instantly programs the ideal settings for each procedure selected. The WaterLase iPlus is a product of Biolase (Irvine, CA, USA), and has been approved by the US Food and drug Administration (FDA) for incision, excision, resection, ablation, vaporization, coagulation and hemostasis, in orthopedic and podiatric surgery, including soft and cartilaginous tissue in small and large joints.

“During the past several years, the use of lasers in orthopedic surgery has become more accepted as a less invasive alternative to conventional surgery and it has become clear that modern lasers will play a significant role in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries,” said Amado Carino, MD, global clinical affairs manager at Biolase. “The WaterLase iPlus will provide an innovative and relevant alternative to orthopedic and podiatric surgeons.”

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