title: Principles of laser surgery. Advantages and disadvantages.
abstract: An attempt has been made in this article to present an honest and accurate state-of-art narrative of laser surgery for pedal conditions. The theory of operation, physiologic effects and procedural comparisons have been presented regarding those procedures and lasers that are available for use by podiatric surgeons and others treating the foot and leg. Although some information described within this article is anecdotal, it is elaborated with representative expert material from the scientific literature. Overall, a sound theoretic understanding of the mode of action of lasers and extensive training and experience is encouraged when engaging in this exciting discipline of surgery.
authors.affiliation: Rocky Mountain Foot Clinic, Denver, Colorado.
authors.forename: E B
authors.initials: EB
authors.lastname: Ballow
mesh_terms: D000075202:Contraindications; D005528:Foot / Q000601:surgery; D005534:Foot Diseases / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy