The evolution of lasers in urology

Abstract

The world's first laser was developed by Theodore Maiman in 1960. Over the course of the past five decades, this technology has evolved into a highly specialized entity, also finding a niche market in the field of urology. Lasers obtained from various lasing mediums producing amplified light of different wavelengths have been tested for urological applications. Today, these lasers are most commonly used in the surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia and as intracorporeal lithotripters. Other uses include ablation of various urologic tumors and incising strictures of the upper- and lower urinary tract. A continuous process of evolution of this technology is taking place, resulting in surgical lasers becoming ever safer, more effective, and more affordable.

Keywords: ablation; laser; lithotripsy; penetration depth; thermal effects; vaporization; wavelength.

Figures

Figure 1.

Absorption spectrum of melanin, hemoglobin and water for specific laser wavelengths [Teichmann and Herrmann, 2007].