Clinical Procedures

Why laser surgery?

The interaction of laser light with tissue provides an alternative, and fundamentally different, approach to surgical methods and practice. Unlike scalpel-based techniques, there is no mechanical contact with the tissue. The Aesculight surgical CO2 laser "cuts" or removes tissue with a highly intense and focused beam of infrared light. Upon impacting the tissue, the rapid absorption of laser energy almost instantaneously vaporizes the target area while simultaneously sealing capillaries, small blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerve endings, with pronounced benefits to both surgeon and patient. The size and power of the laser beam may be adjusted to achieve any desired degree of control over the tissue-removal process, and the laser is equally adept at incisions, excisions, and ablations.

For a listing of laser-specific procedures, see:
General Laser Surgery
Laser Dermatology
Ophtalmic Laser Surgery
ENT laser surgery
Avian and Exotic Surgery
Equine Laser Surgery.

Benefits for the clinician

Improved visibility of the surgical field

The laser beam seals capillaries and small blood vessels as it "cuts", thereby dramatically reducing bleeding, resulting in a much drier and clearer surgical site. In addition, the Aesculight laser does not utilize or require the very distracting aiming beam usually associated with with outdated articulated arm CO2 laser systems.

Reduced procedure time

The hemostatic effect of the CO2 laser beam and the improved visibility of the surgical field often reduce the amount of time required to perform the procedure, and may also reduce the need for sutures, bandaging, and other after-care.

Pinpoint accuracy and control

The diameter of the beam may be adjusted down to a small fraction of a millimeter or expanded to address a much wider swath. The power of the beam may be set for rapid removal of relatively large tissue amounts, or adjusted to remove only one or two cell layers at a time.

Increased surgical capabilities

Laser surgery changes the character of many procedures by making them simpler or by reducing risk. This opens up the possibility of expanding the clinician's surgical repertoire to include procedures that are not practical with conventional scalpel-based techniques.

Advantages of laser surgery are obvious and easy to understand for a pet owner

Overwhelmingly, veterinary clients request laser surgery if it is available. This often comes from their personal experience with laser surgery, or that of a friend or relative. Clients know from these experiences that there is much less pain after laser procedures, or that their pets can return to their normal routine immediately after a laser procedure.

Benefits for the patient

Less Pain

The laser seals lymphatics and nerve endings as it cuts, resulting in less edema and pain; the patient experiences a more comfortable post-operative recovery.

Reduced risk of infection

Laser surgery is a "no touch" technique, and the laser beam kills bacteria in its path, producing a sanitizing effect.

Quicker recovery time

Reduced risk of infection, less bleeding, less swelling, and less pain often allow the patient a more rapid return to normal activities.

References and Links provide more information about lasers in veterinary practice.