title: A review of the principles and use of lasers in lower limb problems.
abstract: Lasers present a unique light source with many clinical uses including a number of applications relevant to the lower extremity. In this article, the basic principles of lasers and their interactions with tissue will be reviewed. The article examines laser applications in skin and vascular disease including wound healing. The principles of laser safety are discussed, and relevant future developments are considered.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medical Physics and Bioengineering, Southampton University, Hospitals Trust NHS, Southampton, UK. angela.cotton@suht.swest.nhs.uk
authors.forename: A M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Cotton