title: Laser-assisted chondroplasty.
abstract: Laser-assisted chondroplasty is a controversial issue in arthroscopy. Some preliminary research has demonstrated that laser energy can stimulate DNA synthesis and matrix production in articular cartilage. Other studies cite the dangers of thermal energy with laser use on articular cartilage. Commonly used lasers and their current research are discussed in this chapter. It is unclear whether or not the laser will remain in the arthroscopists' arsenal for chondroplasty, and further research is warranted.
authors.affiliation: Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Orthopaedic Surgery Associates, 1510 San Pablo Street, #322, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA.
authors.forename: Steven G
authors.initials: SG
authors.lastname: Sclamberg
authors.forename: C Thomas
authors.initials: CT
authors.lastname: Vangsness
mesh_terms: D002356:Cartilage / Q000293:injuries* / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D019902:Chondrocytes / Q000473:pathology; D003646:Debridement / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends