[Laser-induced third-degree finger burns]

Accidental laser-induced profound burns are rare, and they generally affect the eyes. We present a case in which an industrial worker was hit by an invisible laserbeam (1.5 KW) on his right index finger. The lesion was a cavity (3 x 3 x 12 mm) affecting cutis and subcutis. Further, there was transitory affection of the vola-ulnar nerve. The wound healed in 10 days with a stringformed scar, but without any loss of function. A visible frequency added to the cutting laserbeam could supplement the existing extensive safeguards.