Current status of laser applications in neurosurgery

Laser application in neurosurgery was slow initially but now one-fifth of the neurosurgeons in the United States use it. Lasers offer many advantages and have few drawbacks. The CO laser is widely used for ablation of tumors and the Nd: YAG laser is useful for coagulation and sutureless blood vessel anastomosis. A variety of delivery systems are available, as well as adapters for microsurgery. Certain complications have occurred with the use of the Nd:YAG laser but these can be prevented by using proper equipment and adequate training. Current research is being conducted in the tissue effects of lasers and the laser catheter approach to vascular lesions. Lasers have a definite role in the neurosurgery of the future, which will be micromanipulative, automated, and computerized. Close cooperation between engineers and surgeons will play an important role in this development.