Use of the YAG laser in laparoscopic gynecologic procedures.

The YAG laser with the contact sapphire probe has definite advantages over other laser systems. Compared with CO2 lasers, its flexible fiber delivery system can be more easily used. Moreover, the laser can be used within a liquid environment with the production of little or no smoke. The probes allow a contact technique with discrete transfer of energy that can be modulated by the probes chosen and the wattage used. Unlike with the CO2 laser, energy delivery to unintended targets downstream is rarely a problem. As with other lasers, the initial purchase of a YAG laser is expensive. The YAG laser, however, has been used widely in lower generative tract surgery to the cervix and vulva and within the uterus itself for ablation procedures. It is also used with increasing frequency by other subspecialty groups performing urologic procedures, ophthalmologic procedures, and even general surgery. Therefore, its overall cost-effectiveness within an institution is probably excellent.