Chapter 67
- Anesthesia for Laser Surgery
- Ira J. Rampil
The word laser is an acronym for
light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation, and laser technology is
one consequence of Nobel Prize-winning developments in quantum mechanics, which are
among the most important in 20th century physical sciences. In essence, lasers provide
the ability to transfer large quantities of energy rapidly to remote locations.
Applications in medicine have been sought since the laser's creation. About 30 years
later, lasers are an accepted and often preferred member of the surgical armamentarium.
The rapid proliferation of this technology has, however, been accompanied occasionally
by severe complications, making it imperative that anesthesiologists understand the
potential threat to their patients and themselves and be prepared to respond properly.
This chapter reviews relevant highlights of the fundamental physics of lasers and
laser light, rationales for the variety of lasers in clinical use, and important
anesthesia-related concerns during laser surgery. A glossary of terms relevant to
this topic is presented in Table 67-1
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