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Laser use and research in gastroenterology, gynecology, and general surgery: a status report
1The Laser Center, Rochester General Hospital and The University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14621-3095, USA. raymond.lanzafame@viahealth.org
Objective And Background Data:
Despite the burgeoning growth of laser applications in dermatology and plastic surgery, applications in other specialties have declined. Laser use in gastroenterology, general surgery, and gynecology was examined over the past 3 years. Future trends and opportunities are discussed.
Methods:
The MEDLINE database was scanned for scholarly publications between January 1, 1997, and January 1, 2000, and the number of publications in these specialties was determined. A questionnaire was distributed to 362 general surgeons from the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS) to assess current use and future needs. These results were compared to the actual cases performed at a laser center over the same period.
Results:
Of 3,331 publications, 21 (0.6%) covered gastroenterology (GE), general surgery (GS), gynecology (GYN), or laparoscopy (LAP). Keyword citations were 2 GS, 3 GYN, 7 GE, and 12 LAP. Questionnaire results and actual utilization were well correlated.
Conclusions:
Lasers are being used in these specialties despite slow development of novel uses. Opportunities exist for future applications.
