A carbon dioxide laser uses carbon dioxide gas as the active substance in a highly focused beam of light to cut or destroy tissue during surgery. Laser light cleans (sterilizes) and seals as it cuts tissue, which reduces bleeding and pain and shortens the healing time.
Lasers are used for many different types of surgery, including dental surgery, eye surgery, surgery on the female reproductive organs, hemorrhoid surgery, and plastic surgery.
The word "laser" is an acronym of "light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation."
Barbara S. Apgar, MD, MS - Family Medicine, Women's Health
Ross Berkowitz, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated, P.O. Box 1989, Boise, ID 83701. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed.
