ABSTRACT
In Chapter 2 we saw how endoscopes guide light within the body, permitting examinations and surgery in otherwise inaccessible locations. By contrast, lasers use light itself as a tool for surgery and therapy. Laser light can be guided into the body using optical fibers, often in combination with an endoscope. Once inside, the laser light can be focused into tiny intense spots that can burn or blast away tissue cleanly, leaving a bloodless cut. Lasers have become an effective and versatile tool for surgery, where they can be used in place of a scalpel in many applications.
