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Incision properties and thermal effects of three CO2 lasers in soft tissue
P Wilder-Smith1, A M Arrastia, L H Liaw
1Beckman Laser Institute and Medical Clinic, University of California, Irvine, USA.
Objectives:
It was the aim of this study to determine thermal and histologic events resulting from soft tissue incision with three CO2 lasers: one emitting light energy via a hollow waveguide at 9.3 microns; the others emitting light energy at 10.6 microns, one via a hollow waveguide, the other through an articulated arm delivery system.
Study Design:
Thirty standardized incisions were made in the oral mucosa of pig's mandibles with three different lasers at actual power levels of 1, 4 and 12 W. Thermal events were recorded with thermocouples, and a histologic examination was performed to determine vertical and horizontal tissue damage as well as incision depth and width.
Results:
Thermal and histologic results were related to parameters and beam characteristics rather than wavelength.
Conclusion:
In addition to wavelength, many variables can contribute to the surgical characteristics of a laser.