Global Trend of Laser in Medicine, and What We Expect from Japan

抄録

The introduction of Laser technology into medical and surgical fields have been increasing steadily since early 1960. The speaker summarized what have been achieved in 4 periods, namely:
(1) 1960-1970, (2) 1970-1980, (3) 1980-1993 and (4) 1993-2000.
The presentation covered,
On hard-ware development:
(1) Development of Laser System.
(2) Development of Laser Centers.
(3) Miniaturization of the Laser System.
(4) Accessories and Supporting System.
On soft-ware development:
(1) Clinical trial and application in various fields.
(2) Establishment of national, international and regional societies.
(3) Organization of society related with single laser.
(4) Organization of societies related with specialty using laser.
Japan, as one of the industrialized and well educated nations, starting to play active role in the international level since the 1970-1980 period, has developed tremendous works both basically and clinically, especially in the field of endoscopy and PDT. Many laser systems have been developed by companies that meet international standards, and have been highly evaluated.
One of the most important part in spreading the laser technology in medical and surgical fields will be the training program. Japan, as center of Pacific and Asian countries, and with all the exiting powers, will be able to play a very important role as centers for mutual research, and training centers. Some positive ideas were proposed for both NGO and governmental levels to be worked out. These will not only help other developing countries to know how to use the laser properly, but will also help the Japanese laser industries as a whole to survive.