Light, lasers, and beam delivery systems

From a clinical standpoint, laser light differs from ordinary light in two important ways: (1) laser light, unlike ordinary light, is monochromatic; (2) laser light is highly directional, making it possible to efficiently collect and focus the light. Laser light is produced through a process known as stimulated emission. Tissue effects produced by laser light are governed by the light's wavelength. Recently, hollow, flexible fibers have been introduced for CO2 laser beam delivery; compared with existing beam delivery systems, the flexible fiber provides the clinician with increased tactile sensitivity and effective access into restricted spaces.