Abstract
Laser treatment has originally been regarded as a non-contact method, but the so called contact method, in which Quartz fiber is brought into direct contact with the tissue, was developed in 1983. Furthermore, with the introduction of new ceramics (Al2O3) into laser treatment in 1985, indications of laser surgery have been remarkably expanded.
Advantages of the contact method are: (1) The depth of tissue destruction can be adjusted according to the objectives of the treatment. (2) Hemostasis in deep tissues is possible. (3) Effects similar to those of the non-contact method can be obtained at a lower power (50%). (4) Good cutting ability. (5) High safety.
Laser treatment has recently been applied to new areas such as laser thermia and photo-dynamic therapy and is considered to be a highly promising medical technique.
