Laser Surgery, Myth or Truth?
What is Laser Surgery?
Laser surgery is a type of surgery which utilizes specialized light beams instead of instruments. These are used instead of traditional surgical instruments, giving the surgeon a higher level of precision during a procedure. LASER stands for “Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation.”
The most commonly used lasers include the pulsed-dye laser, the YAG laser, the CO2 laser, the argon laser, the excimer laser, the KTP laser, and the diode laser. Each laser comes with its own purpose, and some are better suited to specific surgeries than others. Lasers cut using heat.
Does Laser Surgery Actually Work?
Yes. Unlike most traditional light sources, light from a laser is tuned to specific wavelengths that allow it to be focused into beams. Laser light is powerful enough to cut steel or shape diamonds. However, during the use of lasers during surgery, it is set to a wavelength that is safe for the human body.
When is Laser Surgery Needed
Laser surgery is typically only considered for special cases.
Conditions that can be Helped by Laser Surgery
Most people think of LASIK when they think of laser surgery. However, laser surgery can treat a variety of different conditions and offer patients a superior quality of care thanks to the cutting-edge technology that specialized surgeons can use to correct conditions without traditional instruments.
There are many common conditions or injuries that laser surgery could be used to treat or correct, such as:
- Tumors.
- Blood loss.
- Damaged lymph vessels.
- Spreading tumor cells
- Certain vascular conditions
In the case of laser surgery, many patients report less pain than they experience with traditional surgical instruments and may experience less downtime.
What Does Laser Surgery Entail?
Laser surgery uses light to delivered continuously or intermittently during surgery. It can be used to treat areas of the body that are difficult to reach, and this type of specialized surgery gives surgeons more control and precision throughout the procedure.
Since leading edge arthroscopic surgical instruments and techniques deliver the same or better care more reliably and at less cost, lasers are currently not in use in surgery of the hand and upper extremity.
If You are Experiencing Pain, Contact HandSport Surgery Institute.
Please contact us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment with our talented team. People who may require surgery should be evaluated to try and preven further injury and mobility issues.If you have been injured, it’s important to be evaluated by a highly skilled professional. Call Drs. Mark and Jason Pruzansky at 212-249-8700 to schedule an appointment and obtain an accurate diagnosis.