An evaluation of the effect of laser irradiation on the mechanical properties of blood vessels following welding

1. The relative circumferential deformation, tangential elasticity modulus, and specific deformation energy required for sample deformation for a laser connection 20 days post-operatively do not differ significantly from the corresponding values for the untraumatized vascular wall. 2. The major mechanical indices examined for a connection accomplished by interrupted thread sutures do not differ significantly from the corresponding parameters for a laser connection only 1 month after the procedure. 3. The ultimate stresses for the laser connection at 10 post-operative days are significantly greater than for the connection obtained by interrupted thread sutures. The ultimate stresses do not differ significantly 20 days after performing the two procedures. 4. Thus, relative to deformation and strength characteristics, laser welding provides greater strength of the connection and better deformability relative to interrupted thread sutures both in the initial and later post-operative periods. These features make laser welding of blood vessels a promising method for producing vascular anastomoses.