[Application of contact laser scalpel in thoracic surgery].

The authors have carried out 296 transthoracic and endoscopic YAG-laser operations in various diseases of bronchopulmonary system. Sapphire and quartz applicator-tips were used as a contact scalpel. The procedures of laser operations with the use of the contact mode are described in detail and comparative evaluation of both types of thermal applicator-tips is given. The combination of cutting and coagulation properties of the contact laser scalpel enables its use in various operations on the lung and pleura including thoracoplastic interventions as well as accomplishment of an endoscopic photoresection of endobronchial tumors.