Lung metastasectomy using the 1318nm Lung Laser is a cutting edge surgical technique, originally developed in Germany in the 1990’s and established in the last 15 years as the modality of choice in major European thoracic surgical centres, specialising in treating lung metastases.

The technology employs a powerful laser beam which is directed down a fibreoptic system to a  handpiece, enabling the surgeon to position the beam exactly where he wants it. When applied to tissue this generates temperatures of up to 700° C resulting in tumour vapourisation with minimal damage to neighbouring healthy lung tissue. Tumours can also  be removed at will for examination.

The lung laser can be used in tumours of all kinds, and is particularly helpful in sarcomas.  It enables surgeons to perform complicated lung surgery more efficiently and effectively with important benefits for patients, by:

• Enabling the eradication of deep seated and multiple tumours without the need to remove a major section of the lung (lobectomy). This preserves lung function and prevents breathlessness postoperatively, improving the patient’s quality of life.

 

• Removing multiple tumours faster, therefore reducing the time that patients spend in theatre under a general anaesthetic; and

 

• Eradicating tumour tissue while at the same time sealing surrounding normal lung tissue, reducing the risk of internal bleeding or air leak from the lung, which can lead to a prolonged post-operative stay.

 

• Lung Laser Metastasectomy should not be confused with Radio or Microwave Frequency Ablation (RFA) of metastastic lung tumours. It is a surgical procedure, performed with potentially curative intent under a general anaesthetic, and it is offered only in carefully selected patients with metastatic sarcomas.

In March 2010, and following two years of preparation, Mr George Ladas  introduced the UK’s first lung laser system at the Royal Brompton Hospital.  Since then he has performed more than 100 lung laser metastasectomy operations, a majority of these in patients with sarcomas, with excellent results. The lung laser can be used in combination with other techniques during the same operation, as part of an individualised treatment plan tailored to each patient’s specific needs

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