Laser Surgery Health Article

Definition

The term laser means light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation, and it uses a laser light source (laser beam) to remove tissues that are diseased or to treat blood vessels that are bleeding. Laser beams are strong beams of light produced by electrically stimulating a particular material. A solid, a liquid, or a gas is used. Alternatively, the laser is used cosmetically; it can remove wrinkles, birthmarks, or tattoos.

The special light beam is focused to treat tissues by heating the cells until they burst. There are a number of different laser types. Each has a different use and color. The color, or the light beam, relates to the type of surgery that is being performed and the color of the tissue that is being treated. There are three types of laser: the carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser; the YAG laser (yttrium aluminum garnet); and the pulsed dye laser.

Purpose

Laser surgery is used to:

• cut or destroy tissue that is abnormal or diseased without harming healthy, normal tissue
• shrink or destroy tumors and lesions
• close off nerve endings to reduce postoperative pain
• cauterize (seal) blood vessels to reduce blood loss
• seal lymph vessels to minimize swelling and decrease spread of tumor cells
• remove moles, warts, and tattoos
• decrease the appearance of skin wrinkles

Precautions

Anyone who is thinking about having laser surgery should ask the surgeon to:

• explain why laser surgery is likely to be of greater benefit than traditional surgery
• describe the surgeon's experience in performing the laser procedure the patient is considering

Because some lasers can temporarily or permanently discolor the skin of blacks, Asians, and Hispanics, a dark-skinned patient should make sure that the surgeon has successfully performed laser procedures on people of color. Potential problems include infection, pain, scarring, and changes in skin color.

Some types of laser surgery should not be performed on pregnant women or on patients with severe cardiopulmonary disease or other serious health problems.

Additionally, because some laser surgical procedures are performed under general anesthesia, its risks should be fully discussed with the anesthesiologist. The patient should fully disclose all over-the-counter and prescription medications that are being taken, as well as the foods and beverages that are generally consumed; some can interact with agents used in anesthesia.