Laser Surgery

Laser (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) surgery uses an intensely hot, precisely focused beam of light to remove or vaporize tissue and control bleeding in a wide variety of non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures.

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
• cauterize (seal) blood vessels to prevent excessive bleeding

The first working laser was introduced in 1960. The device was initially used to treat diseases and disorders of the eye, whose transparent tissues gave ophthalmic surgeons a clear view of how the narrow, concentrated beam was being directed. Dermatologic surgeons also helped pioneer laser surgery, and developed and improved upon many early techniques and more refined surgical procedures.