Laser resection technique and results of multiple lung metastasectomies using a new 1,318 nm Nd:YAG laser system

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Advantages of a new 1,318 nm Nd:YAG laser based on multiple lung metastasectomies are shown. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety-three percent of 328 patients with metastases (8/patient, range 1-124) had precision laser resections (lobectomy-rate reduced to 7%); this laser delivers 20 kW/cm(2) 1,318 nm power densities with 400 microm fibers, and a focussing handpiece. Absorption in water is tenfold higher. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Between 1/1996 and 12/2003 in 328 patients (164 males/females, 61 years) 3,267 nodules were removed. Pathologic examination revealed 2,546 metastases (range 3-80 mm) from kidney (n = 112), colorectal (n = 91), and breast cancers (n = 35). In 85% of patients where the complete resection was achieved the 5-year survival was 41%. For remaining 15% (incomplete resection) the 5-year survival was 7%. Five-year survival for patients with 10 (and more) metastases was 28%, for patients with 20 (and more) was 26%. No 30-day mortality was observed. CONCLUSION: This new laser system facilitates any kind of parenchymal lung resection in lobe-sparing manner and in case of complete resection improves significantly the survival.