title: Five parameters you must understand to master control of your laser/light-based devices.
abstract: In this article, the authors review basic fundamental principles of light characteristics and their interaction with the target tissue. It is imperative for the practitioner to understand these concepts to deliver appropriate, efficacious, and safe phototherapeutic treatment for their patients. Once a diagnosis is made and a laser is chosen as a treatment tool, a basic knowledge and understanding of the physics and properties of light/tissue interaction is essential to allow practitioners to provide their patients with optimal results.
authors: Department of Plastic Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.
authors: Jordan P
authors: JP
authors: Farkas
authors: John E
authors: JE
authors: Hoopman
authors: Jeffrey M
authors: JM
authors: Kenkel
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D007834:Lasers; D008027:Light; D010789:Phototherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*
keywords: basics; laser; light; parameters; wavelengths