Experimental CO 2 Laser–Assisted Anastomosis of the Rat Fallopian Tube

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Laser-assisted anastomosis of blood vessels and other tubular structures has been performed experimentally with varying degrees of success. This study was undertaken to determine whether laser energy could be used to anastomose the ends of a severed rat fallopian tube. Thirty-six female white Sprague rats underwent laparotomy during which both fallopian tubes were exposed and transected. The right tube was anastomosed using conventional microsurgical technique. Anastomosis of the contralateral tube was accomplished by laser-assisted technique. Different groups of animals were reoperated upon at varying intervals at which time each fallopian tube was transected proximal to the anastomosis and patency was assessed. The anastomotic sites were removed and submitted for histologic examination, and the original anastomoses were replicated once. All animals were then mated. Ninety-seven percent of sutured and 100% of laser-assisted anastomosed tubes were patent, and 70% of the animals delivered normal offspring. Delivery from the laser-assisted anastomosed tube could be proven in only three animals. Experimental laser-assisted anastomoses of the rat fallopian tube is feasible and high patency rates (100%) can be achieved. Further gross and histologic studies are necessary to determine whether laser is superior to conventional microsurgical technique.