Laser means Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Its use offers the following advantages:
- Precision targeting of sick tissues
- Less pain
- Less bleeding
- Lower chances of infection
- No requirement of general anesthesia
- Reduced stay in hospital
ENT specialists, gynaenocologists, neurologists, dentists, dermatologists, urologists and other specialists use laser in practice. Laser is increasingly used in cosmetic surgery, hair removal, and eyesight correction.
The medium that emits the laser may be gas, crystal, or dye. The method of medium excitation is known as pumping and it varies with the medium. Solid mediums are pumped using a flash lamp or a diode, while gas mediums are pumped by high frequency or high voltage electricity. Dye or liquid medium is either pumped by another laser or by a flash lamp. The laser can be transmitted to the target tissue by an endoscope or microscope. The laser can also be transmitted to certain organs like the oesophagus using light delivery systems and fibre optical cable. No invasive method is required in this case.
Although laser offers numerous advantages, it is not without disadvantages. Exposure to laser can sometimes damage the skin and the eyes. There have been cases of accidental burning of materials kept in OTs. Therefore, international and American safety standards must be followed rigorously. These standards set the limits on laser exposure and emission. In addition, they define laser types, controls, and measurement conditions.
Institutions that utilize certain types of laser are required by both international and American safety standards to employ a Laser Safety Officer to oversee operation and maintenance of laser equipment. The Laser Safety Officer should be vested with the responsibility of monitoring and controlling laser hazards. This can be a part-time or a full-time role.
The use of laser in different establishments has given rise to a range of products to limit harmful exposure to it. There are warning signs, interlock systems, and roller blinds for use in Operation Theatres. In addition, there are special laser protective goggles.
To sum up, laser has proved to be a very effective technology in the field of medicine and surgery. Its use reduces the need for invasive techniques and long periods of hospitalization. Adequate laser safety measures can prevent damage to people and materials.
