Lasers in Medicine

The use of lasers in medical practice has dramatically increased over the years. Lasers and modern optics have largely been unexplored in medical science. This contributed work is both optimistic and cautionary in its expert evaluation of the state-of-the-art medical use of laser technology. The use of lasers to improve upon conventional practice is highlighted in the foreword by the late Dr. Leon Goldman, widely regarded as the father of laser medicine. Focused on filling a need for a "basic physics" understanding of laser-tissue interactions, Lasers in Medicine brings together contributions from experts in various medical specialties, including ophthalmology, dermatology, and cardiovascular medicine. Each chapter addresses significant applications of laser technology and offers the author's perspective on the state-of-the-art within that specialty. The discussions convey enough basic information to enable readers to assess a laser's usefulness for a specific purpose and to understand its limitations: A clinical engineer needs to know what laser to use for tattoo removal-Chapter 1 lists laser wavelengths available and pulse characteristics for absorption in tattoo ink to thermally decompose the ink, allowing the body to remove it. An oncologist discovers cancerous tissue in the lining of a bladder-can photodynamic therapy be used to treat it, and what is the success rate? Chapter 10 details treatment and Chapter 6 tells how to find exactly where the cancer is located. A newly graduated ophthalmologist needs to know the advantages a laser can bring to his profession-Chapter 8 can provide the information he needs to know. Lasers have made many advances in medicine-especially in ophthalmology, dermatology, and cardiology-sparking a wave of enthusiasm. Lasers in Medicine supplies sufficient fundamental knowledge in order to more appropriately assess a laser's usefulness for a specific purpose, and to not attempt to purchase or utilize a laser when it is not the best solution.