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 the 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 a clearer surgical site. In addition, the Aesculight laser does not utilize or require the very distracting aiming beam usually associated with infrared laser systems.

Reduction of procedure time    The hemostatic effect of the 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 set for rapid removal of relatively large tissue amounts, or adjusted to remove only one or two cell layers at a pass.

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 the patient 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 course.

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.

"...laser surgery offers better hemostasis and visibility, less post-operative swelling, and decreased post-operative pain. In certain procedures, better hemostasis and visibility will reduce overall surgical time. As more clients and owners become familiar with these advantages, the laser will become a frequently requested surgical tool."

Timothy Holt, DVM & Fred Mann, DVM, MS
"Soft Tissue Application of Lasers"
Vet Clin Small Animal 32 (2002) 569-599, Elseviere Science (USA)

"I have had my laser for ten years, and I could not practice without it... the laser allows me to do many procedures that I would need to refer if I did not have the laser."

Kenneth O’Hanlon, DVM
Frederick Animal Clinic