Laser resection of lung parenchyma--a new technical and clinical approach.

The introduction of a new 1318 nm wavelength Nd:YAG laser has created new possibilities in lung parenchyma surgery. The potentially curative surgical resection of pulmonary metastases in suitably selected cases had been recognized slowly. Using the new laser technology a greater number of patients can now offered salvage surgery. This paper reviews the history of surgical management of pulmonary metastases, development of new laser technology, conventional and extended indications for pulmonary metastasectomy and use of laser in thoracic surgery.