| 摘要 |
A laser system for performing arthroscopic surgery having an arthroscope (30) and a laser insertion waveguide (18) inserted into the joint of a patient. The arthroscope (30) and insertion waveguide (18) are inserted into the knee through oversized access sleeves or cannulae (52) to allow gas to escape the knee between the cannulae (52) and the respective instrument therein. Charring caused by the laser burning away tissue in the joint is removed by irrigating the joint through one of the cannulae (52). Suction is provided through either or both of the cannulae (52) to remove debris and irrigating fluid. The insertion waveguide (18) is coupled to a handpiece (20a) which is connected to an intermediate laser delivery system (12). Carbon dioxide is transmitted to the joint through the handpiece (20a) and insertion waveguide (18) to prevent debris from obstructing the path of the laser to the surgical site. |
