Computer-assisted surgical techniques using the Vanderbilt Free Electron Laser.

The Vanderbilt Free Electron Laser (FEL) is capable of lasing between 2.0 and 8.0 microns with a high peak intensity pulsed structure. The FEL is used to investigate potential applications in otolaryngology. Charring of temporal bones and thermal stress patterns in Plexiglas indicate thermal buildup at 20 and 10 Hz repetition rates of the laser. Also, transient temperature changes measured with thermocouples in a gelatin model reveal that significant heat production occurs at these laser repetition rates. To utilize the fastest laser repetition rates and maintain minimal lateral thermal damage, a computer-controlled scanning system was devised. The authors have also used the computer control with the carbon dioxide laser and experienced improved ablation.