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Carbon dioxide laser

A carbon dioxide laser uses carbon dioxide gas as the active substance in a highly focused beam of light to cut or destroy tissue during surgery. Laser light cleans (sterilizes) and seals as it cuts tissue, which reduces bleeding and pain and shortens the healing time.

Lasers are used for many different types of surgery, including dental surgery, eye surgery, surgery on the female reproductive organs, hemorrhoid surgery, and plastic surgery.

The word "laser" is an acronym of "light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation."

Author Sandy Jocoy, RN
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kevin Holcomb, MD - Gynecologic Oncology
Last Updated January 5, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: January 05, 2009
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.