We live in a time of accelerating medical innovation when new solutions are constantly arising to treat medical problems that are as old as time. One such innovation that has gained a lot of traction in recent years is the use of medical lasers, which can be used to manage, treat, and cure a range of health problems once deemed untreatable.
In fact, medical laser technology is becoming so popular that its use is set to skyrocket in the coming years, as its treatment potential becomes more widely known among patients and doctors alike. But how do medical lasers work, and how can they be used to the benefit of patients? Read on to find out.
1. How Do Medical Lasers Work?
First off, it’s worth quickly breaking down how medical lasers work. While there are different types of medical laser supplies and techniques, it all boils down to one approach. Medical lasers involve the use of hyper-focused light sources to treat body tissues or remove them entirely.
It is the use of powerful, focused light that is on a particular wavelength. This light is directed to highly-targeted problem areas for treatment. Given how small and precise these lasers are, they are especially useful for delicate surgeries and can help surgeons remove tissue with minimum damage and invasiveness.
Any medical worker can sign up for accredited medical laser training to help them better treat patients. It is also important to sign up for medical laser safety officer training, to ensure that the highest standards of care are used when handling powerful medical lasers.
2. What Can Medical Lasers Treat?
Medical lasers can be used for a variety of purposes and treatments. They are particularly popular for general surgeries, as they can be used to target very small parts of the body without causing any collateral damage to healthy tissues. Lasers are routinely used to remove tumors.
They are also used almost universally in cataract removal operations since they are the only tool that can perform this delicate technique without causing damage to the eye.
Lasers are also very popular within the world of cosmetic surgery, as they can very effectively remove wrinkles, sun spots, tattoos, scars, and spider veins. In some cases, lasers are also used in dental procedures, especially in routine activities such as teeth whitening and general oral surgery.
3. Benefits of Medical Lasers
You might be wondering “do medical lasers hurt?”, or if there are any unwelcome side effects you should be aware of. Generally, you will never experience pain when undergoing any type of laser surgery, as long as you are using a qualified and experienced doctor. Laser surgery is preferred precisely because it tends to be painless.
In addition, laser surgery is generally safer than more invasive methods, since it can be hyper-targeted, thus reducing the chance that healthy tissues or body parts will be damaged. Recovery time also tends to be faster for this exact reason.
Make Empowered Healthcare Decisions in 2022
Now that you understand the essentials of medical lasers, you can use this information to make more informed decisions about your health in the year ahead. If you require the resources to make empowered healthcare decisions in 2022, we have got you covered. Our dedicated Health guides have everything you need.