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Laser is an acronym for Light Amplification
by the Stimulation Emission of Radiation.
Medical lasers utilize light radiation to cleanly cut
through tissues when the beam of light is focused on
the tissue itself. When the beam of light is defocused,
the laser can then be utilized to decrease the size
or 'debulk' the tissue.
The benefits of using laser include decreased bleeding
during surgery (blood vessels less than 0.6 mm in diameter
are coagulated and sealed by the laser) as well as sealing
the vessels known as lymphatics which are responsible
for the post operative edema. Smaller nerves are
sealed or even spared at certain wavelengths, which
can result in decreased pain sensation post operatively
with laser incision and dissection. Micro-organisms
such as bacteria are also destroyed in the process of
using laser, thereby sterilizing and disinfecting the
tissues during the laser procedure.
The technique of laser surgery does require specific
guidelines the surgeon must adhere to, as well as hands
- on experienced training. If these techniques
and procedures are not followed properly, damage to
surrounding tissues may occur, which complicate healing.
When performed correctly, laser patients experience
equivalent or even more rapid healing and recovery than
conventional surgical patients.
A few of the procedures in veterinary medicine which
benefit from laser include feline declawing (cats are
far more comfortable post operatively with this procedure
than with conventional surgical declawing), spaying
and neutering, tumor resection, oral surgery, as well
as assisting in the healing of chronic skin inflammation.
Patients undergoing laser procedures experience more
comfort post - operatively and thus require less pain
management.
The most commonly employed veterinary laser today is
the CO2 laser, which costs approximately 30,000 dollars
to own and operate. This cost is offset usually
in the cost of the procedures themselves, ranging from
25.00 - 100.00 more per procedure. Many feel the
benefit of laser for the patient well outweigh the cost
factor.
Inquire about laser surgery with your veterinary hospital.
If they are currently not using laser, perhaps they
can refer you to a local hospital which does use laser
technology.
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