The word is an acronym for the Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation and provides the Orthopaedic surgeon a powerful yet precise tool with which to treat his/her patients. But, as with any new and exciting technology, safety and training are of the utmost importance and so accreditation criteria are set and administered by the Hospitals and Institutions which provide this facility, in accordance with the Australian Standards in relation to use of Lasers.

History of Lasers - major developments

LASERS have been used in other surgical specialties (Eyes, Dermatology, Gynaecology & Neurosurgery) for many years but further developments were necessary to use this technology in Orthopaedics. The tissues we need to cut, remove and alter are much harder and reflective than those operated upon by our colleagues in other specialities. Also when operating with the arthroscopy, we need to use the Laser in a fluid environment within joints.

In USA, Germany and Switzerland, LASERS have been used clinically since 1988 and now they are used in many countries throughout the world. There are over 250 members of IMLAS with national delegates being appointed in many of these countries. Mr. Malcolm Wicks is the Australian National Delegate and would be pleased to answer any queries regarding LASERS in ORTHOPAEDICS in Australia.

Although LASERS have been used for more than 10 years in Europe and USA their use in Australia is relatively new. In this Clinic, lasers have been used regularly since early 1997 in shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees and ankle joints.

The energy delivered at the end of a very thin probe can be used to heat up and shorten capsules and ligaments, seal blood vessels and stop bleeding, cut all tissues and even sculpture and shape hard tissues like bone and cartilage, with minimal damage to surrounding structures.

 For further information about Lasers and their application in Orthopaedics please visit the following pages.

• Lasers in Shoulders
• Benefit of Lasers