Laser/light applications in anesthesiology

Abstract

Lasers in surgery and medicine have evolved into a specialized area with increasing use and innovative techniques requiring anesthesia providers to be -familiar with the historical, technical, and procedural aspects of laser applications. Lasers applications in surgery include a variety of procedures with various laser types and specific anesthetic considerations. Currently, anesthesia providers commonly encounter use of lasers in many procedures including airway surgery, cutaneous and cosmetic surgeries and various urologic procedures.