Recently, LightSaber, a single-use laser optical fiber catheter independently developed by Zhongke Rongguang, a subsidiary of Weiguang Medical, officially received approval for market launch from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China (Registration Certificate No.: 20263011418).
The catheter is intended for use in combination with the previously approved FastErazer 355 nm cold laser atherectomy device (Registration Certificate No.: 20263011296) for the pretreatment of lower extremity atherosclerotic stenosis (including in-stent restenosis) and occlusive lesions, to facilitate recanalization.
When used together with the FastErazer 355 nm cold laser atherectomy device, the catheter enables efficient and precise ablation of atherosclerotic plaque, thereby enlarging the luminal diameter and promoting the absorption of antiproliferative drugs to restore vascular patency. The system delivers ultraviolet cold laser at an output wavelength of 355 nm and a pulse width of 15 ns, with strong photomechanical effects that readily address lipid/fibrous plaques as well as mild-to-moderate calcified plaques. With a tissue penetration depth of 100–200 μm and a photon energy of 3.5 eV, the risk of vessel wall injury is minimal (plaque dissociation threshold: 3.0 eV; vessel wall dissociation threshold: 3.6 eV). Through photomechanical and photochemical actions, plaque tissue is directly converted into microparticles, gas, and water, which are then cleared by the body's circulation.
According to laboratory data from Weiguang Medical, over 99.9% of the generated particles are smaller than 25 micrometers. In addition, post-ablation luminal surfaces are smooth with minimal dissection. When used in conjunction with drug-coated balloons, the procedure enhances drug absorption and reduces the risk of surgical complications. Furthermore, the instantaneous peak temperature at the catheter tip during laser emission is 41.5°C, and the continuous infusion of saline further dissipates heat, minimizing the risk of thermal injury.
The approval of the LightSaber single-use laser optical fiber catheter not only represents a significant innovative breakthrough for Zhongke Rongguang in the field of vascular intervention but also underscores the innovative strength of China's high-end medical device industry.
Efung Capital participated in Weiguang Medical's financing round in 2026. Looking ahead, EF Capital will continue to focus on cutting-edge technological developments in the cardiovascular and peripheral vascular intervention sectors. Leveraging its deep research capabilities and ecosystem empowerment expertise in the healthcare industry, EF Capital will support Weiguang Medical in accelerating clinical adoption and expanding indications for its products, helping establish a competitive edge for China's domestic cold laser ablation technology on the international stage, and bringing more Chinese-originated high-end medical devices to patients worldwide.
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