Q. What conditions or procedures can be treated with laser surgery?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Laser surgery can be used to treat a wide range of medical and cosmetic conditions, depending on the type of laser and the specific procedure. Some common conditions and procedures that can be treated with laser surgery include:
1. Vision Correction:
- LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) for refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism).
- PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) for vision correction.
- LASEK (Laser-Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy) for vision correction.
2. Dermatology:
- Laser Skin Resurfacing for wrinkles, scars, and sun damage.
- Laser Hair Removal for unwanted hair.
- Treatment of vascular lesions like spider veins.
- Tattoo removal.
- Treatment of birthmarks and pigmented lesions.
- Acne scar revision.
3. Ophthalmology:
- Laser Photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy.
- Laser trabeculoplasty for glaucoma.
- LASIK for vision correction (previously mentioned).
4. Urology:
- Laser Lithotripsy to break down kidney stones and urinary tract stones.
- Treatment of prostate enlargement (BPH) with techniques like Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP).
5. Gynecology:
- Treatment of uterine fibroids with minimally invasive techniques like hysteroscopic and laparoscopic laser surgery.
6. Cardiology:
- Laser Angioplasty to treat blockages in coronary arteries.
- Ablation procedures for arrhythmias.
7. ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat):
- Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy.
- Vocal cord surgery.
- Laser-assisted surgery for sleep apnea.
- Treatment of chronic rhinitis and sinus conditions.
8. Gastroenterology:
- Endoscopic procedures to treat conditions like esophageal strictures, polyps, and Barrett's esophagus.
9. Dental and Oral Surgery:
- Gum reshaping and periodontal procedures.
- Tooth cavity preparation and hard tissue removal.
- Teeth whitening.
10. Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery:
- Laser-assisted liposuction.
- Scar revision and skin tightening.
- Removal of skin lesions and growths.
11. Oncology:
- Laser ablation or photodynamic therapy for the treatment of some cancers.
12. Vascular Surgery:
- Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) for varicose veins.
- Laser angioplasty for vascular blockages.
13. General Surgery:
- Treatment of some soft tissue and skin tumors.
- Hemorrhoidectomy.
14. Orthopedics:
- Arthroscopic procedures to treat certain joint conditions.
- Tendinopathy and pain management.
The applications of laser surgery continue to expand as technology and techniques evolve. It's important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine whether laser surgery is an appropriate treatment option for a specific medical condition. The type of laser and procedure chosen will depend on the individual patient's needs and the condition being addressed.