Laser therapy is any treatment using intense beams of light to
precisely cut, burn, or destroy tissue. The term laser is an
acronym for "light amplification by stimulated emission of
radiation." The laser light beam comes from radiation sources so
small and safe that it poses no health risks to the patient or
medical team. Lasers can be used for many medical purposes.
Because the laser beam is so small and precise, it allows
doctors to safely treat tissue without injuring the surrounding
area. Lasers may be used to remove growths or cauterize Lasers
may also be used during the following procedures: Garrett CG,
Ossoff RH, Reinisch L. Laser surgery: basic principles and
safety considerations. In: Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et
al, eds. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 5th ed.
Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2010:chap 3. Linda J. Vorvick,
MD, Medical Director and Director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX
Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of
Family Medicine, UW Medicine, Scho