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Carbon dioxide laser

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A carbon dioxide laser uses carbon dioxide gas as the active substance in a highly focused beam of light to cut or destroy tissue during surgery. Laser light cleans (sterilizes) and seals as it cuts tissue, which reduces bleeding and pain and shortens the healing time.

Lasers are used for many different types of surgery, including dental surgery, eye surgery, surgery on the female reproductive organs, hemorrhoid surgery, and plastic surgery.

The word "laser" is an acronym of "light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation."

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.