Efficacy of the carbon dioxide laser in hand surgery

The use of the carbon dioxide laser for minor hand problems is reviewed, and the physiological effects of laser treatment are discussed. Forty-one patients have been treated during a one-year period for warts, nail disorders, and a variety of benign neoplasms. Results of CO2 laser treatment are equivalent to those of other methods with less pain and disability. Future applications of the CO2 laser are discussed.