Surgical lasers seal nerve endings and small blood vessels as it cuts through tissue.[i] Surgical lasers have extreme precision and result in less bleeding, less pain, and less swelling compared to a traditional scalpel.[ii] There are various types of surgical lasers including CO2 generated wavelength and Diode generated wavelength. CO2 lasers are typically used in soft tissue cases, Diode lasers are usually used in equine or specialty medicine[iii]
The 15W CO2 Surgical Laser is a tabletop veterinary laser system. The 15W laser is an affordable and compact design allowing for easy transportation between patients. The laser has an articulated arm with a 360-degree radius, with the arm remaining in place when released. The laser has a maximum power of 15 watts with high beam integrity, allowing for consistent energy throughout the surgery. In addition to consistent deliverable energy, the aiming beam allows the veterinarian to visualize where an incision will be made before the laser energy is delivered.[iv]
Similar to the 15W CO2 Surgical Laser, the 30W CO2 Surgical Laser has an articulated arm and a 360-degree hand piece rotation. The main differences between the 15W and 30W includes a touch screen display, wheels for easy transportation between surgical suites, and a maximum power of 30 watts. This factory reconditioned laser is restored and tested to meet the original equipment manufacturers specifications. Clinical applications for the 30W CO2 Surgical Laser include tumor excision and ablation, spays and neuters, perianal surgery, soft palate resections, lick granuloma treatments, entropion repair and eyelid masses.[v]
The 40W CO2 Surgical Laser combines features of previous CO2 surgical lasers. Like the 15W and 30W CO2 Surgical Lasers, the 40W CO2 Surgical Laser has an articulated arm and aiming beam for precision. The 40W CO2 Surgical Laser has an improved touchscreen, average power of 40 watts at the handpiece output and a 25-watt peak power SmartPulseTM technology. SmartPulseTM technology ensures optimal incision efficiency and has an enhanced CO2 metal RF canister which provides 2 to 3 times longer lifespan compared to the glass tubes in the 30W CO2 canister.[vi]
The 30W Diode Surgical Laser is a minimally invasive laser intended for equine and specialty surgeries with a peak power of 30 watts. Similar to the CO2 Surgical Lasers, the Diode laser seals nerve endings and small blood vessels as it cuts through the tissue, resulting in minimal blood loss and shorter recovery time. It reduces the need for anesthesia, while also reducing pain and chance of infection. [vii] The Diode Surgical Laser is ideal for equine, oncology, urology, neurology, and orthopedics.
