title: Physics of the surgical laser.
abstract: Following a brief historical introduction to the use of lasers in surgery, the principal characteristics of laser light sources relevant to surgery with lasers are reviewed and the nomenclature most often used in connection with laser devices is explained. The interactions of electromagnetic energy with soft tissues that make possible ablative surgery with carbon dioxide lasers are stressed. The general requirements of laser instruments for clinical surgery are mentioned in conclusion.
mesh_terms: D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D053685:Laser Therapy; D055585:Physical Phenomena; D010825:Physics; D013523:Surgical Equipment; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative
chemical_list: D002245:Carbon Dioxide