Abstract
For percutaneous observation of lesions near the spinal cord and percutaneous spinal laser surgery under the visual field, we studied a method and approach to the spinal cord and intraspinal surgical procedures with laser using a newly developed, small-diameter laser endoscope. The subarachnoid and epidural spaces of a goat were punctured using a 17-gauge epidural needle, and the endoscope (diameter 0.7 mm) was inserted through the needle. The spinal cord and surrounding tissue were observed. Next, an endoscope (diameter 1.5 mm) was inserted into the subarachnoid space, and the quality of the picture and manageability of the endoscope were examined. The Xe:Cl excimer laser was irradiated to a nerve root through a 0.4 mm optical fiber for laser transmission through this endoscope. The spinal cord, nerve roots, and arachnoid were clearly observed through this endoscope. The pulsation of the artery accompanying a root was seen clearly, and the quality of the picture of the endoscope was thought to be sufficient for diagnosis. The
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