Recently a new endoscopic modality which is used an endoscope attached a special balloon to the end of the instrument was developed. The high transparency rate of the balloon provides a good observation in a cavity and when irradiation of Nd: YAG laser is carried out through the balloon, a certain coagulation can be performed on the target tissue. With this modality the urological application was investigated fundamentally and clinically.
Fundamental studies of laser irradiation through the balloon were experimented on the kidney of an anesthetized rabbit. When a total of 204 joules of Nd: YAG laser was irradiated, the area of coagulation in the tissue was recognised homogenously 4×3mm in width and depth.
For clinical use, a prototype urethrocystoscope which could be attached the balloon was designed for the observation of bladder lumen and the irradiation to the bladder tumor. The visualization via balloon-urethrocystoscope could be obtained clearly in a condition of severe hematuria. The laser coagulation of bladder tumor could be performed satisfactorily without rupture of the balloon in a total of 3000 joules of the irradiation.
The remarks of the modality“urethrocystoscopic maneuver through balloon”can be described as ensuring of a visualization and laser irradiation through balloon under direct vision.
However further experimental and clinical studies will be required to estimate this modality.
