Abstract
BACKGROUND: Laser Tissue Soldering (LTS) is a promising tissue bonding technique in which a solder is applied between the tissues and then irradiated by laser, causing it to solidify and form links with the tissue. METHODS: A comprehensive systematic review summarizing the state of research of LTS in the gastrointestinal tract. RESULTS: Most studies were conducted on large animal tissues, using liquid proteinaceous solder, and irradiated by a continuous wave laser at 808 nm. LTS can provide better sealing and burst pressure than conventional methods. The application of LTS on top of or in addition to sutures showed an impressive increase in burst pressures. LTS may decrease the inflammatory and foreign body reaction caused by sutures. CONCLUSIONS: LTS has strong potential to be applied in a clinical setting in leak prevention and in closure of gastrointestinal structures as an adjunct or additional anastomotic technology, decreasing leak rates, morbidity, and mortality.