Ultraviolet light attenuates vasospasm development: low-intensity 325-nm illumination in animal model

We studied whether prophylactic low-intensity ultraviolet light (UV) irradiation reduces development of delayed cerebral vasospasm in rabbit model. Eleven rabbits had carotid angiography and placement of silicon sheaths around the right common carotid artery (CCA). Just before the placement, CCAs of 6 in the 11 animals were adventitiously exposed to UV (10 mJ/mm2) emitted from a helium-cadmium laser (wavelength equals 325 nm). Sheaths were filled with autologous blood in all of 11 animals. Vasospasm developed 24 to 48 hours (Day 2) later. The CCA luminal diameter without UV irradiation was 77% of the Day 0 state. The prophylactic laser treatment reduced the development of vasospasm, 90% of the Day 0 state. Histological examination of the treated CCA revealed extended smooth muscle cells. There was no endothelial damage. These results suggest that UV is effective for prophylaxis of cerebral vasospasm.