Laser soldering of rabbit skin using IR fiberoptic temperature control system

Background and objectives: Laser soldering of tissues is based on the application of a biological solder on the approximated edges of a cut. Our goal was to use laser soldering for sealing cuts in skin under temperature feedback control and compare the results with ones obtained using standard sutures. Materials and methods: Albumin solder was applied onto the approximated edges of cuts created in rabbit skin. A fiberoptic system was used to deliver the radiation of a CO₂ laser, to heat a spot near the cut edges, and to monitor and control the temperature. Laser soldering was carried out, spot by spot. Results: 60°C was found to be the optimal soldering temperature. The tensile strength of laser-soldered cuts was measured after 3-28 days postoperatively and was found comparable to that of sutured cuts. Histopathological studies showed no thermal damage and less inflammatory reaction than that caused by standard sutures. SEM results indicates that laser soldering yielded scars with smoothest and nearest to normal surface morphology. Conclusions: Temperature controlled laser soldering of cuts in rabbit skin gave strong bonding. The cosmetic and histological results were very good, in comparison to those of standard sutures.