What is Laser Therapy?
Laser Therapy utilizes high-intensity light for the treatment of lung cancer. The word LASER stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Lasers are used to shrink or destroy tumors and can also be used to relieve certain symptoms of cancer like bleeding or obstruction. The lasers work by destroying tumor which is blocking a person’s windpipe. Laser therapy can be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
How is Laser Therapy Performed?
Laser therapy is generally given through a flexible endoscope which is fitted with optical fibers. It is inserted through an opening in the body and the laser light precisely cuts or destroys the tumor. The doctor passes a small laser down the bronchoscope tube to burn away as much tumor as possible with the laser. The bronchoscopy tube is then taken out. Lasers are generally used in two ways to treat cancer: one is to shrink or destroy tumor with heat and another way is to activate a chemical called photosensitizing agent that kills the cancer cells.
What Types of Lasers are Used?
Three types of lasers are used to treat cancer: carbon dioxide lasers, argon lasers, and Nd:YAG (Neodymium: Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet) lasers. CO2 and argon lasers are used to remove superficial cancers while Nd:YAG is more commonly applied through an endoscope to treat internal organs.
What are the Side Effects of Laser Therapy?
The common side effects associated with laser therapy include soreness and pain, bleeding, and chest infection. One may experience collapsed lung and may make you feel breathless. If you face any serious or side effects for a long time, contact your doctor immediately.
The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only.
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