Laser therapy
Key points
- Laser therapy is any treatment using intense beams of light to precisely cut, burn, or destroy tissue.
- The laser light beam is generated from radiation sources so small and safe that it poses no health risks to the patient or medical team.
- The term laser is an acronym for "light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation."
- Because the laser beam is so small and precise, it enables physicians to safely treat specific tissue without injuring surrounding tissue.
Definition
Laser therapy is any treatment using intense beams of light to precisely cut, burn, or destroy tissue. The term laser is an acronym for "light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation."
Information
The laser light beam is generated from radiation sources so small and safe that it poses no health risks to the patient or medical team.
The laser is used for many medical purposes. Because the laser beam is so small and precise, it enables physicians to safely treat specific tissue without injuring surrounding tissue. Some uses of the laser are retinal surgery, removal of growths, and cauterization of blood vessels. See also laser surgery.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.