Technology shapes our society, and many of these advancements have led to significant changes in healthcare. Lasers allow surgeons to remove tumors and treat skin conditions like melanoma without invasive procedures. Keep reading to learn more about the ways we use lasers for surgical procedures.
Cosmetic Procedures
Lasers are beneficial to dermatologists because they are a unique tool to remove skin imperfections by blasting specialized light on an area. Some professionals also use lasers to remove tattoos, scars, and wrinkles. Other popular cosmetic surgeries that use lasers are hair removal and refractive eye surgery.
These procedures work by using the laser to burn off a layer of skin. Patients may experience discomfort after the surgery as the skin heals. These lasers hit high temperatures, and knowing how thermoelectric coolers work helps prevent them from overheating.
Oral Care
Another interesting way we use lasers for surgical procedures falls within dental care. Dentists use lasers for cosmetic and essential surgery. For example, some patients get their teeth whitened with lasers, but others need lasers to treat gum disease. Dentists and oral surgeons can also use lasers to blast away plaque.
Cancer Treatment
Many doctors use carbon dioxide lasers when treating skin cancer because the lasers penetrate the most superior skin layers, removing those cancer cells. Depending on the type of cancer and the tumor's location, surgeons may use a different type of laser. The two most commonly used lasers for cancer treatment are argon lasers and Nd:YAG lasers.
Thanks to this technology, healthcare professionals can offer better quality treatment to their patients. Laser surgeries are quicker procedures, and there's less risk of infection. Most doctors can perform this as an outpatient procedure, and patients heal much faster.
Tumor Removal
Sometimes, patients may have a benign tumor that must be removed because it impacts their quality of life. However, tumor removal can be dangerous depending on where it is. The site may even be inaccessible with traditional surgical equipment. Fortunately, a surgeon can remove the benign tumor with laser surgery.
The Benefit of Lasers in Surgery
Lasers benefit the medical field for a few reasons. While they offer new forms of treatment and faster recovery, this procedure can also give a patient more peace of mind. Oftentimes, laser surgery doesn't require anesthesia. With many common surgery stressors lessened, patients can focus on allowing their bodies to heal.
