Endoscopic laser surgery in the colon and rectum

The first applications of laser energy in the gastrointestinal tract occurred barely a decade ago. Since then, endoscopic laser therapy has become widespread in the management of colonic and rectal disease. Applications have been developed for the palliative therapy of obstructing or bleeding malignancies, for the management of some benign and premalignant mucosal diseases and for certain anatomic problems such as anastomotic strictures. Recurrent bleeding from mucosal vascular lesions can be controlled with laser therapy. Methods for treating anorectal disorders also are evolving. The continuing development of new endoscopic systems for increasing ease of access to the gastrointestinal tract all point to ever-increasing applications for laser therapy in colonic and rectal surgery.