12 LASER RADIATION Flashcards
LASERS
Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.
Use of light to create a therapeutic effect.
LASER PENETRATION
Frequency determines the depth of penetration.
600-1300 nanometer [nm] optimizes the depth of penetration in human tissue at 1 - 4 mm.
Low-power lasers are used therapeutically.
High-power lasers are used surgically.
COLD LASER/LOW-INTENSITY
Less than 500 mW power.
May stimulate healing.
Recommended in acute conditions.
HOT LASERS/HIGH-INTENSITY
Heat and destroy tissue.
Used in surgery.
CHARACTERISTICS OF LASER LIGHT (3)
Monochromatic: light is from a narrow and specific wavelength, light is all the same frequency.
Coherent: all waves are in phase with each other
Collimation or directional: very little divergence.
EFFECTS OF LASER
Wound and fracture healing.
Tissue repair.
Increase circulation in local areas.
Pain management.
Reduce swelling and edema.
Improved scar tissue formation.
Increased immunity.
Healing of non-union fractures.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Directly to the eyes (wear eye protection).
Hypersensitivity to light.
After radiation therapy.
Over hemorrhage.
Locally to endocrine glands.
Over cardiac/thyroid areas.
LASER PARAMETERS
Intensity/Dose: Joules (J) or J/cm2
Frequency: Hz
UV RADIATION
Sunlight.
Heat lamp.
UV Lamps.
EFFECTS OF UV RADIATION
Skin erythema.
Tanning.
Vitamin D synthesis.
CLINICAL USE OF UV
Skin healing.
Wound healing.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Sleep Disorders.
PRECAUTIONS OF UV
Photosensitivity.
Photosensitive medications.
CONTRAINDICATIONS OF UV
Irradiation of eyes.
Skin cancer.
Pulmonary TB.
Cardiac, kidney or liver disease.
Systemic Lupus .
Fever.
ADVERSE EFFECTS OF UV
Burning.
Premature skin aging.
Eye damage.
Sensitivity.
Carcinogenesis.
