Laser medicine

Laser Medicine is a branch of medicine that uses lasers in the treatment or diagnosis of various conditions. The two main types of lasers used in medicine are low-level lasers and high-power lasers. Low-level lasers are used to stimulate cell function, while high-power lasers are used to cut or destroy tissue.

History

The use of lasers in medicine began in the 1960s, shortly after the invention of the first working laser. The first medical application of lasers was in ophthalmology, for the treatment of retinal tears. Since then, the use of lasers in medicine has expanded to include a wide range of applications, from dermatology to neurosurgery.

Applications

Dermatology and plastic surgery

In dermatology and plastic surgery, lasers are used for a variety of procedures, including skin resurfacing, hair removal, and the treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions.

Ophthalmology

In ophthalmology, lasers are used to treat a variety of conditions, including retinal tears, glaucoma, and refractive errors.

Oncology

In oncology, lasers are used to destroy tumors and precancerous growths. They can also be used to reduce symptoms in patients with advanced cancer.

Dentistry

In dentistry, lasers are used for a variety of procedures, including tooth whitening, gum surgery, and the removal of oral tumors.

Safety and regulation

The use of lasers in medicine is regulated by various agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration in the United States. Safety guidelines and standards have been developed to protect patients and healthcare providers from the potential risks associated with laser use.

See also

• Laser surgery
• Laser hair removal
• Photomedicine

References

This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia

   This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!

• 

  Coherent 899 dye laser used in medical applications

• 

  Photodynamic therapy equipment

• 

  Sharplan 40C laser used in surgery