Lasers in neurosurgery: a review.

Abstract

In recent years neurosurgeons have shown an increasing interest in lasers. An understanding of the basic laser mechanism and tissue effects is important. CO2 laser is an excellent no-touch tool for excising and evaporating brain tumors. It has several other uses in neurosurgery both with free-hand technique and with microscope attachment and a micromanipulator. It is easier and more precise to manipulate a laser beam than any of the conventional instruments. Nd:YAG and argon lasers are more effective for coagulation of blood vessels and for dealing with vascular neoplasms. Microvascular anastamosis has been achieved with the use of Nd:YAG laser in experimental animals and has potential for practical application in extra-intracranial bypass operations. There are many advantages and some disadvantages to the use of lasers in neurosurgery.

• Authors: K K Jain
• Journal: Lasers in surgery and medicine (Lasers Surg Med) Vol. 2 Issue 3 Pg. 217-30 ( 1983) ISSN: 0196-8092 [Print] United States
• PMID: 6405109 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Carbon Dioxide
• Argon

Topics

• Argon
• Carbon Dioxide
• Central Nervous System Diseases (surgery)
• Humans
• Laser Therapy
• Lasers (adverse effects)
• Microsurgery
• Neurosurgery