September 8, 2010
Home  |  Resources For Employees, Board Members & Providers  |  Site Map
Careers  |  Contact Us
About CMH
Ways to Give
Volunteering
Services and Facilities
Find a Physician
Resources For Employees, Board Members & Providers





Medical Marketplace
First Aid
Symptom Checker
Directions & Maps

Medical Conditions - Definition

Search Health Content   Print This Page Print    Email to a Friend Email
Carbon dioxide laser

Carbon dioxide laser

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."

Last Updated: January 5, 2009

Author: Sandy Jocoy, RN

Medical Review: Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine & Kevin Holcomb, MD - Gynecologic Oncology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

© 1995-2010 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.