1.   As ultraviolet light cuts through the tissue, the laser sheath moves down and covers the lead, then removes it with a hook.

2.   If approved, the laser sheath would be the first laser designed for the difficult removal procedure.

3.   The company said the laser sheath not only was as safe and effective as traditional methods but also could safely remove leads that other methods could not.

4.   The company submitted an application for FDA approval of its excimer laser sheath in November.