XL Vets equine factsheets

A laser generates an intense beam of light that for surgical purposes can be used to cut, seal or vaporise tissue. There are three different types of laser used: CO2, diode and Nd:YAG. The CO2 laser heats up water within the tissue and vaporises it. This laser has the advantages of sparing surrounding tissue from heat damage and precise cutting capability. Both diode and Nd:YAG deliver the laser down a fibre allowing it to be passed down a video-endoscope and used for endoscopic guided surgery. The laser energy is more easily absorbed by tissue than CO2 laser, resulting in increased risk of heat damage to tissue. The diode laser is becoming increasingly popular in large animal practice as it is small, portable and efficient.