Applications of laser technology in breast cancer therapy

Breast cancer is an increasingly common problem affecting one in nine women. The optimal management of carcinoma of the breast remains controversial. This paper reviews the rationale for the use of laser technology in the treatment of primary and advanced breast cancer. The CO2 laser has several properties which make it advantageous for breast surgery. The technical details for optimal laser utilization are presented. Experimental evidence documents a marked reduction of local tumor recurrence following surgery with lasers. Preliminary human studies suggest that laser use lengthens the disease-free interval and may decrease local recurrence. Interstitial laser therapy holds promise for use in the treatment of locally advanced breast tumors and has been suggested by some as a potential modality for the primary therapy of breast cancer. The clinical use of lasers in the treatment of breast cancer is justified.