Lasers in endoscopic surgery.

Lasers provide the endoscopic surgeon with a sophisticated tool for high precision cutting, destruction of tissue and coagulation. The laser allows efficient and time-saving operating techniques. Various laser systems emitting at different wavelengths are available. The absorption of the laser is determined by the tissue properties, such as water content or pigmentation, and varies strongly with the wavelength. Each laser offers advantages for the treatment of specific disorders. Further data from clinical studies are required to evaluate whether the advantages found in experimental studies are of significance in clinical use.