Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation (LASER) is an optoelectronic device that generates concentrated light rays. With laser surgery, the surgeon uses a laser beam rather than a scalpel to cut or remove tissue. The laser beam is highly focused and works efficiently, minimizing tissue damage and supporting faster healing times.  This is one of the main reasons laser surgery has succeeded in veterinary surgery. Endoscopic, laparoscopic, and other laser-based techniques treat illnesses such as benign polyps, intestinal neoplasia, and gastric ulcers in pets.

Here are some of the benefits of laser technology and its contributions to veterinary surgery.

Minimized Bleeding

Laser beams offer the ability to cut and seal small blood vessels in pets, which reduces bleeding. This technology has enabled vets to simplify medical procedures that would be far more difficult with the traditional scalpel due to blood loss.

Reduced Pain

As the laser beam makes an incision, it also seals the nerve endings. This action plays a large part in reducing pain and inflammation after surgery.

Minimal Swelling, Irritation, And Infections

Since there is no physical contact between the surgical area and the laser, laser surgery eliminates tissue tearing and bruising. The CO2 laser is especially useful in treating illnesses affecting the pet’s perianal region beneath the tail. This region has thin and sensitive skin that can be easily damaged. The CO2 laser offers a hands-free method that aids in decreasing the discomfort and irritation that arises after surgery. The laser energy also acts as an antibacterial by producing high temperatures, greatly reducing the risk of infections.

Laser Technology Offers Improved Surgical Precision

The laser generates a highly monochromatic and coherent beam of light. This beam is delivered precisely to the point of focus. This accuracy allows the surgeon to target very small areas without causing additional damage to the healthy tissues around the surgical area.

Laser Technology Contributes To Quick Recovery

Minimal bleeding, less swelling, no damage to healthy tissues, and minimal risk of infections contribute highly to your pet recovering faster. Your pet will also be more comfortable and need less pain management medication than pets that undergo traditional surgery methods.

Your Pet Spends Less Time On The Surgery Table

Laser technology improves the stability of a pet’s vitals during surgery, reducing the risk of complications that could be both dangerous and time-consuming to address. This effect, along with enhanced visibility and the accuracy of the surgical region, reduces the length of surgery and its impact on your pet.

Exciting Innovations In Veterinary Medicine

Many veterinarians are adapting laser technology for a wider range of procedures as it continues to improve and become more readily available.  Laser surgery is highly effective and greatly reduces irritation, swelling, bleeding, discomfort, and infections. The technology benefits not only pets but also vets and pet owners as well. If you’d like to learn more, reach out to your veterinarian to find out whether laser surgery could be an option for your pet.