Lasers in neurosurgery: a review

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Abstract
In recent years neurosurgeons have shown an increasing interest in lasers. An understanding of the basic laser mechanism and tissue effects is important. CO2laser is an excellent no‐touch tool for excising and evaporating brain tumors. It has several other uses in neurosurgery both with free‐hand technique and with microscope attachment and a micromanipulator. It is easier and more precise to manipulate a laser beam than any of the conventional instruments. NdrYAG and argon lasers are more effective for coagulation of blood vessels and for dealing with vascular neoplasms. Microvascular anastamosis has been achieved with the use of Nd:YAG laser in experimental animals and has potential for practical application in extra‐intracranial bypass operations. There are many advantages and some disadvantages to the use of lasers in neurosurgery.