Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Association; FOR 2240 "(Lymph)Angiogenesis And Cellular Immunity In Inflammatory Diseases Of The Eye" to LMH; HE 6743/2-1 and HE 6743/3-1 to LMH), GEROK program of the University of Cologne to KRK and LMH. Our gratitude goes to Dr. K&#252;hner for technical support.

For this procedure, informed consent is required and has been obtained for every patient who has undergone surgery in the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany. All examinations and surgical interventions were executed in accordance with national laws and the declaration of Helsinki from 1975 in its current version.
NOTE: Unless indicated otherwise, instructions will always only refer to the side on which the procedure is being performed. Use sterilized equipment...

<ol>
	<li>Toti, A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Nuovo+metodo+conservatoire+di+cura+radicale+delle+suppurazioni+croniche+del+sacco+lacrimale+(dacriocistorinostomia).">Nuovo metodo conservatoire di cura radicale delle suppurazioni croniche del sacco lacrimale (dacriocistorinostomia).</a> Clin. Mod. Pisa. 1 (10), 385-387 (1904).</li><li>Alnawaiseh, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Long-Term+Outcomes+of+External+Dacryocystorhinostomy+in+the+Age+of+Transcanalicular+Microendoscopic+Techniques.">Long-Term Outcomes of External Dacryocystorhinostomy in the Age of Transcanalicular Microendoscopic Techniques.</a> J. Ophthalmol. , (2016).</li><li>Tooley, A. A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Dacryocystorhinostomy+for+Acquired+Nasolacrimal+Duct+Stenosis+in+the+Elderly+(&#8805;80+Years+of+Age).">Dacryocystorhinostomy for Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Stenosis in the Elderly (&#8805;80 Years of Age).</a> Ophthalmology. , (2016).</li><li>Detorakis, E. T., Drakonaki, E., Papadaki, E., Pallikaris, I. G., Tsilimbaris, M. K. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Watery+eye+following+patent+external+DCR:+an+MR+dacryocystography+study.">Watery eye following patent external DCR: an MR dacryocystography study.</a> Orbit. 29 (5), 239-243 (2010).</li><li>Kakizaki, H., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+lacrimal+canaliculus+and+sac+bordered+by+the+Horner's+muscle+form+the+functional+lacrimal+drainage+system.">The lacrimal canaliculus and sac bordered by the Horner's muscle form the functional lacrimal drainage system.</a> Ophthalmology. 112 (4), 710-716 (2005).</li><li>Emmerich, K. H., Ungerechts, R., Meyer-R&#252;senberg, H. W. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Mikroendoskopische+Tr&#228;nenwegschirurgie.">Mikroendoskopische Tr&#228;nenwegschirurgie.</a> Ophthalmologe. 106 (3), 196-204 (2009).</li><li>Emmerich, K. H., L&#252;chtenberg, M., Meyer-R&#252;senberg, H. W., Steinhauer, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Dacryoendoskopie+und+Laserdacryoplastik:+Technik+und+Ergebnisse.">Dacryoendoskopie und Laserdacryoplastik: Technik und Ergebnisse.</a> Klin. Monatsbl. Augenheilkd. 211 (6), 375-379 (1997).</li><li>Meyer-R&#252;senberg, H. W., Emmerich, K. H., L&#252;chtenberg, M., Steinhauer, J. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Endoskopische+Laserdacryoplastik+-+Methodik+und+Ergebnisse+nach+3+Monaten.">Endoskopische Laserdacryoplastik - Methodik und Ergebnisse nach 3 Monaten.</a> Ophthalmologe. 96 (5), 332-334 (1999).</li><li>Emmerich, K. H., Ungerechts, R., Meyer-R&#252;senberg, H. W. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Transcanalicular+microendoscopic+laser+DCR:+technique+and+results.">Transcanalicular microendoscopic laser DCR: technique and results.</a> Klin Monbl Augenheilkd. 229 (1), 39-41 (2012).</li><li>Koch, K. R., Cursiefen, C., Heindl, L. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Transcanalicular+Laser+Dacryocystorhinostomy:+One-Year-Experience+in+the+Treatment+of+Acquired+Nasolacrimal+Duct+Obstructions.">Transcanalicular Laser Dacryocystorhinostomy: One-Year-Experience in the Treatment of Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstructions.</a> Klin. Monbl. Augenheilkd. 233 (2), 182-186 (2016).</li><li>Koch, K. R., K&#252;hner, H., Cursiefen, C., Heindl, L. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Significance+of+transcanalicular+laser+assisted+dacryocystorhinostomy+in+modern+lacrimal+drainage+surgery.">Significance of transcanalicular laser assisted dacryocystorhinostomy in modern lacrimal drainage surgery.</a> Ophthalmologe. 112 (2), 122-126 (2015).</li><li>Uludag, G., Yeniad, B., Ceylan, E., Yildiz-Tas, A., Kozer-Bilgin, L. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Outcome+comparison+between+transcanalicular+and+external+dacryocystorhinostomy.">Outcome comparison between transcanalicular and external dacryocystorhinostomy.</a> Int. J. Ophthalmol. 8 (2), 353-357 (2015).</li><li>Ozcimen, M., Uysal, I. O., Eryilmaz, M. A., Kal, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Endocanalicular+diode+laser+dacryocystorhinostomy+for+nasolacrimal+duct+obstruction:+short-term+results+of+a+new+minimally+invasive+surgical+technique.">Endocanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy for nasolacrimal duct obstruction: short-term results of a new minimally invasive surgical technique.</a> J. Craniofac. Surg. 21 (6), 1932-1934 (2010).</li><li>Drnovsek-Olup, B., Beltram, M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Transcanalicular+diode+laser-assisted+dacryocystorhinostomy.">Transcanalicular diode laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy.</a> Indian. J. Ophthalmol. 58 (3), 213-217 (2010).</li><li>D'Ecclesia, A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Endoscopic+laser-assisted+dacryocistorhinostomy+DCR+with+the+placement+of+a+customised+silicone+and+Teflon+bicanalicular+stent+Endoscopic+laser-assisted+dacryocystorhinostomy+(DCR).">Endoscopic laser-assisted dacryocistorhinostomy DCR with the placement of a customised silicone and Teflon bicanalicular stent Endoscopic laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR).</a> Clin. Ter. 165 (6), e391-e394 (2014).</li><li>Ayintap, E., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Analysis+of+age+as+a+possible+prognostic+factor+for+transcanalicular+multidiode+laser+dacryocystorhinostomy.">Analysis of age as a possible prognostic factor for transcanalicular multidiode laser dacryocystorhinostomy.</a> J. Ophthalmol. , (2014).</li><li>Dogan, R., Meric, A., Ozs&#252;tc&#252;, M., Yenigun, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Diode+laser-assisted+endoscopic+dacryocystorhinostomy:+a+comparison+of+three+different+combinations+of+adjunctive+procedures.">Diode laser-assisted endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy: a comparison of three different combinations of adjunctive procedures.</a> Eur. Arch. Otorhinolaryngol. 270 (8), 2255-2261 (2013).</li><li>Plaza, G., Beter&#233;, F., Nogueira, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Transcanalicular+dacryocystorhinostomy+with+diode+laser:+long-term+results.">Transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy with diode laser: long-term results.</a> Ophthal Plast Reconstr Surg. 23 (3), 179-182 (2007).</li><li>Heindl, L. M., Junemann, A., Holbach, L. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=A+clinicopathologic+study+of+nasal+mucosa+in+350+patients+with+external+dacryocystorhinostomy.">A clinicopathologic study of nasal mucosa in 350 patients with external dacryocystorhinostomy.</a> Orbit. 28 (1), 7-11 (2009).</li><li>Heindl, L. M., Treutlein, E., J&#252;nemann, A. G., Kruse, F. E., Holbach, L. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Selective+lacrimal+sac+biopsy+for+external+dacryocystorhinostomy:+a+clinical+pathological+study.">Selective lacrimal sac biopsy for external dacryocystorhinostomy: a clinical pathological study.</a> Ophthalmologe. 107 (12), 1139-1144 (2010).</li><li>Aziz, T., Biron, V. L., Ansari, K., Flores-Mir, C. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Measurement+tools+for+the+diagnosis+of+nasal+septal+deviation:+a+systematic+review.">Measurement tools for the diagnosis of nasal septal deviation: a systematic review.</a> J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 43, 11 (2014).</li><li>von Goscinski, C., Koch, K. R., Cursiefen, C., Heindl, L. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Tumors+of+the+lacrimal+drainage+system.">Tumors of the lacrimal drainage system.</a> HNO. 64 (6), 386-393 (2016).</li><li>Heindl, L. M., J&#252;nemann, A. G., Kruse, F. E., Holbach, L. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Tumors+of+the+lacrimal+drainage+system.">Tumors of the lacrimal drainage system.</a> Orbit. 29 (5), 298-306 (2010).</li><li>Kaynak, P., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Transcanalicular+diode+laser+assisted+dacryocystorhinostomy+in+primary+acquired+nasolacrimal+duct+obstruction:+2-year+follow+up.">Transcanalicular diode laser assisted dacryocystorhinostomy in primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction: 2-year follow up.</a> Ophthal Plast Reconstr Surg. 30 (1), 28-33 (2014).</li><li>Goel, R., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Transcanalicular+Laser-Assisted+Dacryocystorhinostomy+With+Endonasal+Augmentation+in+Primary+Nasolacrimal+Duct+Obstruction:+Our+Experience.">Transcanalicular Laser-Assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy With Endonasal Augmentation in Primary Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction: Our Experience.</a> Ophthal Plast Reconstr Surg. , (2016).</li><li>Yildirim, Y., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Comparison+of+Transcanalicular+Multidiode+Laser+Dacryocystorhinostomy+with+and+without+Silicon+Tube+Intubation.">Comparison of Transcanalicular Multidiode Laser Dacryocystorhinostomy with and without Silicon Tube Intubation.</a> J Ophthalmol. , (2016).</li><li>Kar, T., Yildirim, Y., Topal, T., &#199;olako&#287;lu, K., &#220;nal, M. H. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Efficacy+of+adjunctive+mitomycin+C+in+transcanalicular+diode+laser+dacryocystorhinostomy+in+different+age+groups.">Efficacy of adjunctive mitomycin C in transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy in different age groups.</a> Eur. J. Ophthalmol. 26 (1), 1-5 (2016).</li><li>Ozsutcu, M., Balci, O., Tanriverdi, C., Demirci, G. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Efficacy+of+adjunctive+mitomycin+C+in+transcanalicular+diode+laser+dacryocystorhinostomy.">Efficacy of adjunctive mitomycin C in transcanalicular diode laser dacryocystorhinostomy.</a> Eur. Arch. Otorhinolaryngol. 274 (2), 873-877 (2016).</li></ol>

Transcanalicular laser-assisted DCR as described above is a fairly quick, minimally invasive way to treat absolute infrasaccal nasolacrimal duct obstruction effectively without the need for skin incision, thus sparing not only the skin but also the medial canthal tendon and the physiological canalicular pump mechanism. While the procedure is well suited for patients with primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction, pathologies other than idiopathic stenosis do not qualify for this procedure. This is owing, in part, to...

Infrasaccal primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) is a common disorder in middle-aged and older patients leading to chronic epiphora and blepharitis as well as recurring or chronic dacryocystitis. Most commonly, patients develop an infrasaccal obstruction of one or both nasolacrimal ducts, resulting in insufficient tear drainage.
In the treatment of PANDO, external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is still considered to be the gold standard, even though this procedure historically dates back over a hundred years to when it was first performed1. After skin incision and preparation of the nasal wall of the lacrimal sac, a drill is used to create a bony ostium leading to the nasal cavity, thus bypassing the obstructed duct. Functional success rates above 85% have been reported for this method2,3. These results, however, come at the cost of performing a relatively invasive procedure that puts at risk the medial structures of the eyelid including the physiological canalicular pump mechanism4,5 and may leave patients with an unwelcome scar, although modern nasojugal skin incisions have improved results. These risks are potentially avoidable by performing less invasive techniques or choosing an endonasal approach.
In order to circumvent invasive surgery, much work has been done in the field of minimally invasive tear drainage recanalization. Two methods in particular have been established as potential first-step procedures: microdrill dacryoplasty and laser-assisted dacryoplasty. These procedures are based on transcanalicular endoscopy of the tear drainage system and can be performed to treat for short-segment membranous stenoses of the nasolacrimal duct. Though only minimally invasive and characterized by quick reconvalescence, a common drawback of these recanalizing techniques are the relatively low functional success rates with regard to long-term outcomes6,7,8,9.
In an effort to fill the void between these first-step procedures and external DCR as a definitive treatment, new approaches have recently been developed. The most promising of which is laser-assisted DCR for the treatment of absolute infrasaccal PANDO. Like with all aforementioned approaches, patients are recommended to be put under general anesthesia for this procedure. A diode laser fiber is inserted via either canaliculus and is then advanced into the lacrimal sac. Next, laser energy is applied to the lateral nasal wall until a bony ostium is created, connecting to the nasal cavity at the height of the middle turbinate&#39;s anterior margin10,11. All the while, constant visual control is kept using endonasal endoscopy. The newly formed anastomosis serves as a bypass for the tear drainage. After successful irrigation, bicanalicular silicon intubation is performed to prevent early scarring of the newly formed ostium. Postoperative treatment consists of decongestant, steroidal and antibiotic eye drops to prevent swelling, inflammation, and infection, respectively.
The duration of surgery as well as reconvalescence is generally shorter than with external DCR (10 - 25 min in laser-assisted DCR vs. 35 - 75 min in external DCR). Complication rates are relatively low, the most common being discrete swelling of the eyelids and silicon tube prolapse. Canalicular infection and thermal injury are rare events10. One-year functional success rates of 74 - 88% have been reported10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18, thus ranging closely behind those of external DCR without suffering the disadvantages of the external surgical approach. However, long-term results remain yet to be provided. Additionally, even after failure of laser-assisted DCR, secondary external DCR can still be performed without difficulty. Consequently, laser-assisted DCR qualifies as a viable second-step procedure that should optimally be performed after failure of recanalization surgery and before external DCR.

<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="812">
	<tbody>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">C1.multi</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">LUT</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">05.0082h.1</td>
			<td style="width:196px;">Endoscope camera</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">HL 250</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">LUT</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">95.2048n</td>
			<td>Endoscope light source</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">MD-19E</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">ACL GmbH</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">1119</td>
			<td>Endoscope screen</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">FOX (laser)</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">A.R.C. Laser GmBH, N&#252;rnberg, Germany</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">n/a</td>
			<td>Diode laser</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Laser fiber</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">A.R.C. Laser GmBH, N&#252;rnberg, Germany</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">LL13001s</td>
			<td>Laser fiber</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="20">
			<td height="20" style="height:20px;width:216px;">Laser handpiece</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">A.R.C. Laser GmBH, N&#252;rnberg, Germany</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">n/a</td>
			<td>Handpiece</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Wide Collarette Monoka</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">Fa. FCL, Paris, France</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">S1.1630</td>
			<td>monocanalicular silicon tube</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Suction elevatorium</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">Storz</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">474015</td>
			<td>For intranasal use</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Forceps (Gr&#252;nwald)</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">Storz</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">426620</td>
			<td>For intranasal use</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Forceps (Blakesley-Wilde)</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">Storz</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">456502</td>
			<td>To grab the silicon tube</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Lacrimal canula</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">Storz</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">81071</td>
			<td>Blunt cannula</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Bangerter probe cannula</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">Storz</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">81055</td>
			<td>Bangerter probe cannula</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Wooden spatula</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">any</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">n/a</td>
			<td>Wooden spatula</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Xylometazolin 0.05% eye drops</td>
			<td>GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">n/a</td>
			<td>Decongestant eye drops</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Dexapos comod eye drops</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">Ursapharm</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">n/a</td>
			<td>steroid eye drops</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="21">
			<td height="21" style="height:21px;width:216px;">Floxal eye drops</td>
			<td style="width:281px;">Dr. Gerhard Mann</td>
			<td style="width:119px;">n/a</td>
			<td>antibiotic eye drops</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

transcanalicular diode laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy for the treatment of primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction

Today&#39;s gold standard in the treatment of infrasaccal primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) is external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), a relatively invasive procedure that can be performed after failure of recanalizing treatments. However, with progress in the field of diode laser technology, new approaches have emerged. Laser-assisted transcanalicular DCR with subsequent bicanalicular silicon intubation is a new option showing great promise as a viable minimally invasive procedure. Under permanent endoscopic visual control from the nasal cavity, a diode laser fiber is inserted into the lacrimal sac and laser energy is applied to create a bony ostium between the lacrimal sac and the nasal cavity. Since no skin incision needs to be made, advantages of this method comprise the sparing of the skin as well as the medial palpebral structures and the physiological palpebral-canalicular pump mechanism. The duration of surgery as well as reconvalescence is generally shorter than with external DCR. Complications include silicon tube prolapse, mild swelling and, rarely, canalicular infection and thermal injury. One-year functional success rates, defined as complete resolution of symptoms and ostium patency, are high, yet still range behind those of external DCR. However, secondary external DCR after failure of laser-assisted DCR can be performed without difficulty. Thus, laser-assisted transcanalicular DCR is a valid option that should be considered as a second-step procedure after failure of recanalization procedures and before external DCR.

Optimal result:
The procedure as described above takes about 10 - 25 min and is usually tolerated very well. Upon examination the next day, a little swelling of the eyelid can be present in about 60% of cases. This little swelling always resolves completely within a maximum of three days. Patients do not complain about pain, silicon prolapse or signs of injury or infection. However, due to bicanalicular silicon intubation being per...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Transcanalicular Diode Laser-assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy for the Treatment of Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction at JoVE.com

Transcanalicular Diode Laser-assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy for the Treatment of Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction

The goal of this protocol is to present transcanalicular laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy as a minimally invasive approach in the treatment of primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

Today&#39;s gold standard in the treatment of infrasaccal primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) is external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR), ...

The overall goal of this procedure is to create a tier bypass in cases of absolute infrasacal nasolacrimal duct obstruction. This modern procedure offers the possibility to effectively treat nasolacrimal duct obstruction safely and quickly, while at the same time reducing complication rates when compared to established protocols. The main advantage of this technique is that it is minimally invasive.After putting the patient under general anesthesia, according to the text protocol, insert the video-assisted endoscope into the nasal cavity by carefully advancing it through the nostril. Tilt the endoscope towards the lateral nasal wall to visualize the anterior margin of the middle turbinate. Next, put on protective glasses and set up the laser equipment by connecting the laser fiber optic to the diode laser.Set the diode laser to six to eight watts, 200 millisecond pulse duration and 100 millisecond exposition pause. Fit the laser fiber optic into the handpiece for maneuvering and then through a blunt cannula. Let two to three millimeters of the fiber stick out at the tip of the cannula.Perform carbonization of the laser fiber tip by holding it on a wooden spatula and applying laser energy for a few seconds, until the tip is sufficiently blackened. This will limit unwanted energy distribution to the lacrimal sac. Next, to dilate the upper and lower punctum, insert a lacrimal probe, vertically at first, and then position it horizontally before further advancing it towards the lacrimal sac.Begin by vertically inserting the laser fiber into the lower canaliculus before tilting it toward the temple horizontally, to follow the physiological formation of the lower canaliculus. Carefully advance the laser fiber into the lacrimal sac until it touches the lateral nasal wall, i.e. the medial lacrimal sacal wall.Then, aim the tip in an anteroinferior direction so that it points to the anterior margin of the middle turbinate. To create a sufficient nasolacrimal bypass while maintaining constant contact to the nasal wall while not applying pressure, vaporize the tissue by applying laser energy. It is very important that the laser fiber is not actively pressed to the wall or subjected to lateral stress.This is because retraction or breaking of the fiber may cause heating of the metal cannula, therefore causing thermal injury. When the lateral nasal wall has been penetrated, pull the laser fiber back a bit and enlarge the ostium by carefully vaporizing the margins in a circular manner. Try to create as large a bypass as possible.Using a Bangerter probe, verify the patency of the ostium by saline irrigation. If a patent ostium was created, successful irrigation should be visible endoscopically. Through the lower punctum, insert a monocanalicular silicone tube and carefully advance it until the leading metal tip passes the bony ostium and protrudes into the nasal cavity.Use Blakesley forceps to grab the tip from inside the nasal cavity and pull the silicone tube out of the nose and into position. And then, use a pair of scissors to cut them short. Perform silicone intubation via the upper canaliculus and remove the endoscope.Then, use a pair of scissors to shorten the silicone tubes so that the ends are not sticking out of the nose. Carry out postoperative care according to the text protocol. Upon examination, the day after transcanalicular laser-assisted DCR, a little swelling of the eyelid can be present in about 60%of cases.This slight swelling always resolves completely within a maximum of three days. However, because bicanalicular silicone intubation is performed during the procedure, epiphora may persist until the tubes are removed. This table gives an overview of the results.Functional success, meaning complete resolution of symptoms at the six months mark, can be achieved in 78%of patients. In about 22%of cases, restenosis may occur. The most likely reason is scar tissue forming in the bony ostium and secondary external DCR can become necessary.Serious complications are rare, however, when the utilized laser equipment is not handled carefully, the tip of the laser fiber can slip back into the metal cannula, which will cause heating of the metal. This results in thermal injury to the canaliculus or lacrimal sac. In conclusion, laser DCR is a minimally invasive technique with high functional success rates, few complications and no need for a skin incision.Once mastered, this technique can be done in 15 to 25 minutes if it is performed properly. While attempting this procedure, it's important to remember to create as large an ostium as possible since smaller diameter osteotomies facilitate early scarring. If following this procedure, restenosis occur, secondary external dacryocystorhinostomy can still be performed without an increase in complication rates.After its development, this technique paved the way for researchers in the field of oculoplastics to further explore laser-assisted lacrimal bypass surgery and its possible combinations with the use of fibrosis inhibiting drugs and internasal apparatus. After watching this video, you should have a good understanding of how to perform transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy using a diode laser to create nasal lacrimal bypass. Don't forget that working with lasers can be hazardous and precautions, such as wearing protective goggles, should always be taken while performing this procedure.

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Research

JoVE Journal

Medicine

10.8K ビュー.  University of Cologne. The overall goal of this procedure is to create a tier bypass in cases of absolute infrasacal nasolacrimal duct obstruction. This modern procedure offers the possibility to effectively treat nasolacrimal duct obstruction safely and quickly, while at the same time reducing complication rates when compared to established protocols. The main advantage of this technique is that it is minimally invasive.After putting the patient under general anesthesia, according to the text protocol, inse...

ビデオ: Transcanalicular Diode Laser-assisted Dacryocystorhinostomy for the Treatment of Primary Acquired Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction

The goal of this protocol is to present transcanalicular laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy as a minimally invasive approach in the treatment of primary acquired nasolacrimal duct...

treatment of ejaculatory duct obstruction by seminal vesiculoscopy assisted flow modification

Author Spotlight: Advanced Treatment of Seminal Duct Blockage Employing Endoscopy-Mediated Semen Channel Refluviation 

This protocol introduces the clinical application of seminal vesicle endoscopy combined with holmium laser in the treatment of ejaculatory duct obstruction caused by ejaculatory duct...

Treatment of Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction by Seminal Vesiculoscopy Assisted Flow Modification

enucleation of the prostate for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia using a 980 nm diode laser

Enucleation of the Prostate for the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Using a 980 nm Diode Laser

Here, we present a protocol for modified 980 nm diode laser enucleation to treat large volume benign prostatic...

adjunctive diode laser therapy and probiotic lactobacillus therapy in the treatment of periodontitis and peri-implant disease

Adjunctive Diode Laser Therapy and Probiotic Lactobacillus Therapy in the Treatment of Periodontitis and Peri-Implant Disease

This article describes two protocols: 1) adjunctive diode laser therapy for treating periodontitis and 2) probiotic Lactobacillus therapy for treating peri-implant disease, with emphasis on the laser usage mode (inside or outside pocket), laser application regimen (single or multiple sessions), and a probiotic protocol of professional and home...

Adjunctive Diode Laser Therapy and Probiotic Lactobacillus Therapy in the Treatment of Periodontitis and Peri-Implant Disease

Seminal Vesiculoscope Laser-Assisted Surgery to Treat Ejaculatory Duct Blockage

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surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia: holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (holep).

Surgical Treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate HoLEP.

Here we present a safe and efficient protocol, holmium laser enucleation of the prostate, to treat benign prostatic...

Surgical Treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP).

improved thoracoscopic-assisted surgery for the treatment of metastatic thoracic vertebral tumors

Here, we present a protocol to demonstrate an improved thoracoscopic-assisted surgery for the treatment of metastatic thoracic vertebral...

Improved Thoracoscopic-Assisted Surgery for the Treatment of Metastatic Thoracic Vertebral Tumors

endolymphatic duct blockage as a surgical treatment option for m&#233;ni&#232;re's disease

Endolymphatic Duct Blockage as a Surgical Treatment Option for M&#233;ni&#232;re's Disease

Endolymphatic duct blockage is a relatively new surgical method for patients suffering from M&#233;ni&#232;re's disease. Following a regular mastoidectomy, the endolymphatic duct is identified and ligated using a regular titanium hemoclip. The effectiveness of this procedure is currently being assessed in a randomized trial.

culturing primary rat inner medullary collecting duct cells

Culturing Primary Rat Inner Medullary Collecting Duct Cells

Arginine-vasopressin (AVP) controls fine-tuning of body water homeostasis through facilitating water reabsorption by renal principal cells. Here, we present a protocol for the cultivation of primary rat inner medullary collecting duct cells suitable for the elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying AVP-mediated water...

pulsed laser diode-based desktop photoacoustic tomography for monitoring wash-in and wash-out of dye in rat cortical vasculature

Pulsed Laser Diode-Based Desktop Photoacoustic Tomography for Monitoring Wash-In and Wash-Out of Dye in Rat Cortical Vasculature

A compact pulsed laser diode-based desktop photoacoustic tomography (PLD-PAT) system is demonstrated for high-speed dynamic in vivo imaging of small animal cortical...

control of cell geometry through infrared laser assisted micropatterning

Control of Cell Geometry through Infrared Laser Assisted Micropatterning

The protocol presented here enables automated fabrication of micropatterns that standardizes cell shape to study cytoskeletal structures within mammalian cells. This user-friendly technique can be set up with commercially available imaging systems and does not require specialized equipment inaccessible to standard cell biology laboratories.

orthopedic robot-assisted femoral neck system in the treatment of femoral neck fracture

Orthopedic Robot-Assisted Femoral Neck System in the Treatment of Femoral Neck Fracture

This article introduces a method of robot-assisted orthopedic surgery for screw placement during the treatment of femoral neck fracture using the femoral neck system, which allows for more accurate screw placement, improved surgical efficiency, and fewer...

laser-assisted lentiviral gene delivery to mouse fertilized eggs

Laser-assisted Lentiviral Gene Delivery to Mouse Fertilized Eggs

Mouse fertilized eggs and early stage embryos are protected by the zona pellucida, a glycoprotein matrix that forms a barrier against gene delivery. This article describes a protocol for perforating the zona with a laser to transduce embryonic cells with lentiviral vectors and to create transgenic...

laser-assisted cytoplasmic microinjection in livestock zygotes

Laser-assisted Cytoplasmic Microinjection in Livestock Zygotes

This protocol shows how to perform cytoplasmic microinjection in farm animal zygotes. This technique can be used to deliver any solution into the one-cell embryo such as genome editing tools to generate knockout...

construction and characterization of external cavity diode lasers for atomic physics

Construction and Characterization of External Cavity Diode Lasers for Atomic Physics

This is an instructional paper to guide the construction and diagnostics of external cavity diode lasers (ECDLs), including component selection and optical alignment, as well as the basics of frequency reference spectroscopy and laser linewidth measurements for applications in the field of atomic...

preparation of hard palm seeds for matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-imaging mass spectrometry analysis

Author Spotlight: A Tailor-Made Sample Preparation Approach for Enhanced MALDI-IMS Analysis of Hard Palm Seeds

This protocol aimed to describe detailed guidance on the preparation of hard seed sample sections with low water content for MALDI-IMS analysis, maintaining analytes' original distribution and abundance and providing high-quality signal and spatial...

Preparation of Hard Palm Seeds for Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization-Imaging Mass Spectrometry Analysis

laser-assisted microdissection (lam) as a tool for transcriptional profiling of individual cell types

Laser-assisted Microdissection LAM as a Tool for Transcriptional Profiling of Individual Cell Types

Here we present a protocol for laser-assisted microdissection of specific plant cell types for transcriptional profiling. While the protocol is suitable for different species and cell types, the focus is on highly inaccessible cells of the female germline important for sexual and apomictic reproduction in the crucifer genus Boechera.

Laser-assisted Microdissection (LAM) as a Tool for Transcriptional Profiling of Individual Cell Types

a mouse model of intestinal partial obstruction

A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction

Intestinal obstructions are a partial or complete blockage of the intestine that can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and preventing the passage of stool. This procedure for creating intestinal partial obsructions in mice is reliable in studying the mechanisms underlying pathological cell growth and death in the...

combining 1565 nm laser and supramolecular salicylic acid treatment for improved skin treatment

Combining 1565 nm Laser and Supramolecular Salicylic Acid Treatment for Improved Skin Treatment

application of seminal vesiculoscopy and holmium laser to treat ejaculatory duct blockage caused by cysts

Application of Seminal Vesiculoscopy and Holmium Laser to Treat Ejaculatory Duct Blockage Caused by Cysts  

Cannulation of the Mouse Submandibular Salivary Gland via the Wharton's Duct

Severe salivary gland hypofunction is frequently found in patients with Sj&ouml;gren's syndrome and those who receiving therapeutic 
irradiation in their head and neck regions for cancer treatment. Both groups of patients experience symptoms such as xerostomia (dry mouth), dysphagia 
(impaired chewing and swallowing), severe dental caries, altered taste, oro-pharyngeal infections (candidiasis), mucositis, pain and discomfort.
One innovative approach of regenerative medicine for the treatment of salivary gland hypo-function is speculated in RS Redman, E Mezey 
et al. 2009: stem cells can be directly deposited by cannulation into the gland as a potent method in reviving the functions of the impaired organ. Presumably, 
the migrated foreign stem cells will differentiate into glandular cells to function as part of the host salivary gland. Also, this cannulation technique is an 
expedient and effective delivery method for clinical gene transfer application.
Here we illustrate the steps involved in performing the cannulation procedure on the mouse submandibular salivary gland via the Wharton's duct 
(Fig 1). C3H mice (Charles River, Montreal, QC, Canada) are used for this experiment, which have been kept under clean conventional conditions at 
the McGill University animal resource center. All experiments have been approved by the University Animal Care Committee and were in accordance with the 
guidelines of the Canadian Council on Animal Care.
For this experiment, a trypan blue solution is infused into the gland through the opening of the Wharton's duct using a 
insulin syringe with a 29-gauge needle encased inside a polyethylene tube. Subsequently, the mouse is dissected to show that the infusions migrated 
into the gland successfully.

Cannulation of the Mouse Submandibular Salivary Gland via the Wharton&#039;s Duct

A protocol for the cannulation of the mouse submandibular salivary gland via the Wharton's duct is described. For this experiment, the trypan blue solution is used as a dyer to demonstrate how this technique effectively delivers infusions into the targeted gland, and to suggest the reliability of this new approach as a potential clinical drug/cell therapy for the regeneration of salivary glands.

Severe salivary gland hypofunction is frequently found in patients with Sj&ouml;gren's syndrome and those who receiving therapeutic 
irradiation in their ...

Evaluation of a Novel Laser-assisted Coronary Anastomotic Connector - the Trinity Clip - in a Porcine Off-pump Bypass Model

To simplify and facilitate beating heart (i.e., off-pump), minimally invasive coronary artery bypass surgery, a new coronary anastomotic connector, the Trinity Clip, is developed based on the excimer laser-assisted nonocclusive anastomosis technique. The Trinity Clip connector enables simplified, sutureless, and nonocclusive connection of the graft to the coronary artery, and an excimer laser catheter laser-punches the opening of the anastomosis. Consequently, owing to the complete nonocclusive anastomosis construction, coronary conditioning (i.e., occluding or shunting) is not necessary, in contrast to the conventional anastomotic technique, hence simplifying the off-pump bypass procedure. Prior to clinical application in coronary artery bypass grafting, the safety and quality of this novel connector will be evaluated in a long-term experimental porcine off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) study. In this paper, we describe how to evaluate the coronary anastomosis in the porcine OPCAB model using various techniques to assess its quality. Representative results are summarized and visually demonstrated.

This paper describes a novel nonocclusive coronary anastomotic connector in a porcine off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) model. This easy-to-use coronary connector has intrinsic potential to facilitate minimally invasive OPCAB surgery.

To simplify and facilitate beating heart (i.e., off-pump), minimally invasive coronary artery bypass surgery, a new coronary anastomotic connector, the ...

A Murine Model of Irreversible and Reversible Unilateral Ureteric Obstruction

Obstruction of the kidney may affect native or transplanted kidneys and results in kidney injury and scarring. Presented here is a model of obstructive nephropathy induced by unilateral ureteric obstruction (UUO), which can either be irreversible (UUO) or reversible (R-UUO). In the irreversible UUO model, the ureter may be obstructed for variable periods of time in order to induce increasingly severe renal inflammation and interstitial fibrotic scarring. In the reversible R-UUO model the ureter is obstructed to induce hydronephrosis, tubular dilation and inflammation. After a suitable period of time the ureteric obstruction is then surgically reversed by anastomosis of the severed previously obstructed ureter to the bladder in order to allow complete decompression of the kidney and restoration of urinary flow to the bladder. The irreversible UUO model has been used to investigate various aspects of renal inflammation and scarring including the pathogenesis of disease and the testing of potential anti-inflammatory or anti-fibrotic therapies. The more challenging model of R-UUO has been used by some investigators and does offer significant research potential as it allows the study of inflammatory and immune processes and tissue remodeling in an injured and scarred kidney following the removal of the injurious stimulus. As a result, the R-UUO model offers investigators the opportunity to explore the resolution of kidney inflammation together with key aspects of tissue repair. These experimental models are of relevance to human disease as patients often present with obstruction of the renal tract that requires decompression and are commonly left with significant residual kidney impairment that has no current treatment options and may lead to eventual end stage kidney failure.

The murine model of irreversible unilateral ureteric obstruction (UUO) is presented together with the model of reversible UUO in which the ureteric obstruction is relieved by anastomosis of the severed ureter into the bladder. These models enable the study of renal inflammation and scarring as well as tissue remodeling.

Obstruction of the kidney may affect native or transplanted kidneys and results in kidney injury and scarring. Presented here is a model of obstructive ...

Network Analysis of Foramen Ovale Electrode Recordings in Drug-resistant Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Patients

Approximately 30% of epilepsy patients are refractory to antiepileptic drugs. In these cases, surgery is the only alternative to eliminate/control seizures. However, a significant minority of patients continues to exhibit post-operative seizures, even in those cases in which the suspected source of seizures has been correctly localized and resected. The protocol presented here combines a clinical procedure routinely employed during the pre-operative evaluation of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients with a novel technique for network analysis. The method allows for the evaluation of the temporal evolution of mesial network parameters. The bilateral insertion of foramen ovale electrodes (FOE) into the ambient cistern simultaneously records electrocortical activity at several mesial areas in the temporal lobe. Furthermore, network methodology applied to the recorded time series tracks the temporal evolution of the mesial networks both interictally and during the seizures. In this way, the presented protocol offers a unique way to visualize and quantify measures that considers the relationships between several mesial areas instead of a single area.

This protocol describes a procedure to track the evolution of mesial network measures in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients. It is based on the combination of intracranial recordings with a novel numerical technique for data analysis. Specifically, we present a protocol for network analyses of foramen ovale recordings.

Approximately 30% of epilepsy patients are refractory to antiepileptic drugs. In these cases, surgery is the only alternative to eliminate/control ...

Nerve-sparing Mid-urethral Obstruction (NeMO) in Female Small Rodents

Partial bladder outlet obstruction (pBOO) has a high prevalence, causes significant patient burden, and immense health care costs. The most common animal model to investigate bladder remodeling in pBOO are female rodents undergoing partial obstruction at the proximal urethra. Variability in the degree of obstruction and animal mortality are major concerns with proximal obstruction. Furthermore, dissecting around the proximal urethra and bladder neck jeopardizes bladder innervation.
We developed a nerve-sparing mid-urethral obstruction (NeMO) model for pBOO avoiding the disadvantages of the traditional model. We approached the urethra just inferior to the pubic symphysis, which obviated the need for laparotomy as well as for dissection in this area; also, the striated urethral sphincter remained untouched. We performed NeMO in female Sprague-Dawley rats (12 obstructions, 6 sham animals) as well as in female C57/bl6 mice (20 obstructions, 18 sham animals). After two weeks, we evaluated bladder function, bladder mass, and body mass.
We had no mortalities among obstructed- or sham-operated female rats; as described for the traditional proximal pBOO-method, we tied the suture around the proximal urethra and a temporarily placed 0.9 mm metal rod. NeMO induced an 85% increase in bladder mass after two weeks, average residual urine volume was 0.4 mL in partially obstructed rats while only 0.03 mL in sham animals. In mice, we tested 3 sizes of cannulas that we placed along the urethra when tying the suture. We found that using a 27-gauge cannula resulted in over 50% animal mortality; placing the 25-gauge cannula did not yield the desired response in increasing bladder mass; utilizing a 26-gauge cannula yielded favorable results with minimal animal mortality (1/8) yet a significant 2-fold increase in bladder mass.

Nerve-sparing Mid-urethral Obstruction NeMO in Female Small Rodents

Traditional modeling of partial bladder outlet obstruction in rodents is fraught with animal mortality. A denervation injury from dissection around the proximal urethra and bladder neck is also of major concern. We developed and evaluated a safe and reliable mid-urethral obstruction model, avoiding the shortcomings of the traditional model.

Partial bladder outlet obstruction (pBOO) has a high prevalence, causes significant patient burden, and immense health care costs. The most common animal ...

In the aging male population, the occurrence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common problem. Here, we introduce a new technique called 980 nm diode laser enucleation (DiLEP) to treat BPH1. Diode lasers can absorb both water and hemoglobin at the same time, so they are good for cutting and hemostasis2. The diode laser was approved by the FDA in 2007, and has been used in the treatment of BPH because of its effective cutting and hemostasis effect3. DiLEP presents several advantages over other techniques, such as TURP, HoLEP, and PVP. During the procedure, we define the boundary of a high-volume prostate and separate it into three lobes with a diode laser by burning two rings and one groove (like a Cupid&#39;s arrow). Compared to other procedures, mDiLEP has fewer intraoperative complications, a shorter learning curve, and achieves more tissue resection.

Here, we present a protocol for modified 980 nm diode laser enucleation to treat large volume benign prostatic hyperplasia.

In the aging male population, the occurrence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common problem. ...

Development of a Noninvasive, Laser-Assisted Experimental Model of Corneal Endothelial Cell Loss

Nd:YAG lasers have been used to perform noninvasive intraocular surgery, such as capsulotomy for several decades now. The incisive effect relies on the optical breakdown at the laser focus. Acoustic shock waves and cavitation bubbles are generated, causing tissue rupture. Bubble sizes and pressure amplitudes vary with pulse energy and position of the focal point. In this study, enucleated porcine eyes were positioned in front of a commercially available Nd:YAG laser. Variable pulse energies as well as different positions of the focal spots posterior to the cornea were tested. Resulting lesions were evaluated by two-photon microscopy and histology to determine the best parameters for an exclusive detachment of corneal endothelial cells (CEC) with minimum collateral damage. The advantages of this method are the precise ablation of CEC, reduced collateral damage, and above all, the non-contact treatment.

Here, we present a protocol to detach corneal endothelial cells (CEC) from Descemet&#8217;s membrane (DM) using a neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser as an ex vivo disease model for bullous keratopathy (BK).

Nd:YAG lasers have been used to perform noninvasive intraocular surgery, such as capsulotomy for several decades now. The incisive effect relies on the ...

Establishment of a Mouse Severe Acute Pancreatitis Model using Retrograde Injection of Sodium Taurocholate into the Biliopancreatic Duct

The prevalence of acute pancreatitis (AP), especially severe acute pancreatitis (SAP), is increasing in younger age groups annually. However, there is a lack of effective treatments in the current clinical practice. With the easy accessibility of transgenic and knockout strains and their small size, which allows minimal doses of drugs required for in vivo evaluation, a well-established experimental model in mice is preferred for AP research. Moreover, SAP induced through sodium taurocholate (TC) is currently one of the most widely used and best characterized models. This model has been investigated for novel therapies and possible molecular events during the process of AP. Here, we present the generation of an AP mouse model using sodium taurocholate and a simple homemade microsyringe. Moreover, we also provide the methodology for the subsequent histology and serological testing.

A mouse model of severe acute pancreatitis is described herein. The procedure presented here is very rapid, simple, and accessible, thereby potentially allowing the study of the molecular mechanisms and different therapeutic interventions in acute pancreatitis in a convenient way.

The prevalence of acute pancreatitis (AP), especially severe acute pancreatitis (SAP), is increasing in younger age groups annually. However, there is a ...

Laparoscopy-endoscopy Cooperative Surgery for the Treatment of Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors

In view of the shortcomings of endoscopic or laparoscopic surgeries alone in the treatment of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (G-GISTs), this approach makes an innovative improvement in the treatment of G-GISTs that are less than 5 cm in size. Laparoscopy-endoscopy cooperative surgery (LECS) is used to combine endoscopic and laparoscopic surgeries, fully realizing their respective advantages and avoiding their drawbacks. The main steps are as follows. First, gastroscopy and laparoscopy are combined to confirm the location and boundary of the tumor. Tumor resection is carried out laparoscopically, guided by a gastroscope. The specimen is removed orally and the gastric wound closed laparoscopically. Then, gastroscopy and laparoscopy are combined to determine whether there is wound bleeding, if the suture is satisfactory, and if the gastric cavity is deformed.
LECS has natural advantages in the treatment of G-GISTs that are less than 5 cm in size. The accurate estimation of tumor location and boundary greatly improves the complete resection rate of tumors. The risk of tumor rupture is substantially reduced, and the long-term prognosis of patients is significantly improved. The process allows for accurate resection of the tumor, maximum preservation of normal gastric tissue and organ function, and avoids postoperative gastric deformation. The patient's postoperative rehabilitation is greatly accelerated, and oral feeding can resume on the day of the operation. The specimen is taken out through the mouth to avoid the need for an extended abdominal incision. This greatly reduces the patient's postoperative pain and scarring. The method greatly shortens the postoperative hospital stay (i.e., discharge is possible on the day after the operation), increasing the turnover of hospital beds.

Laparoscopy-endoscopy cooperative surgery is appropriate for the treatment of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors less than 5 cm in size. It can achieve the respective advantages of endoscopic and laparoscopic surgeries while avoiding their drawbacks.

In view of the shortcomings of endoscopic or laparoscopic surgeries alone in the treatment of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (G-GISTs), this ...

Periodontal and peri-implant diseases are plaque-induced infections with a high prevalence, seriously impairing people&#39;s quality of life. The diode laser has long been recommended as adjunctive therapy in treating periodontitis. However, the optimal combination of usage mode (inside or outside periodontal pocket) and application regimen (single or multiple sessions of appointment) has not been described in detail. Meanwhile, probiotic Lactobacillus is regarded as a potential adjuvant in the management of the peri-implant disease. Nonetheless, a detailed protocol for an effective probiotic application is lacking. This article aims to summarize two clinical protocols. For periodontitis, the optimal collaboration of laser usage mode and application regimen was identified. Regarding peri-implant mucositis, a combined therapy containing professional topical use and home administration of probiotic Lactobacillus was established. This updated laser protocol clarifies the relationship between the treatment mode (inside or outside the periodontal pocket) and the number of laser appointments, further refining the existing diode laser therapy. For inside pocket irradiation, a single session of laser treatment is suggested whereas, for outside pocket irradiation, multiple sessions of laser treatment provide better effects. The improved probiotic Lactobacillus therapy resulted in the disappearance of swelling of the peri-implant mucosa, a reduced bleeding on probing (BOP), and an obvious reduction and good control of plaque and pigmentation; however, probing pocket depth (PPD) had limited improvement. The current protocol should be regarded as preliminary and could be further enhanced.

This article describes two protocols: 1) adjunctive diode laser therapy for treating periodontitis and 2) probiotic Lactobacillus therapy for treating peri-implant disease, with emphasis on the laser usage mode (inside or outside pocket), laser application regimen (single or multiple sessions), and a probiotic protocol of professional and home administration.

Periodontal and peri-implant diseases are plaque-induced infections with a high prevalence, seriously impairing people&#39;s quality of life. The diode ...