Laser surgery

Description:
The term "LASER" stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A laser is a special light beam which can be precisely focused and is used to treat tissues by heating the targeted cells until they "burst". Laser treatment can: 1) destroy diseased tissues (such as tumors), 2) seal small blood vessels (coagulation) to reduce blood loss , and 3) reduce scarring normally associated with non-laser surgeries.

There are several types of lasers: the carbon dioxide (or CO2) laser, the YAG (neodymium, or yttrium aluminum garnet) laser, and the argon laser. Each laser has specific uses. The color of the laser (light beam) used is directly related to the type of surgery being performed and the color of the tissue being treated.

Indications:
Laser surgery can be used to:
  • remove tumors (brain, liver)
    • with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue
    • with minimal scarring

  • seal small blood vessels to reduce blood loss
  • seal lymph vessels to reduce swelling ( edema ) and decrease the spread of tumor cells
  • seal nerve endings to reduce postoperative pain
  • remove warts , moles , and tattoos



What to Expect After:
The outcome is variable, depending on the individual conditions (age and general health, type of disease or condition being treated, extent of the disease or condition, tissue type and color). Consult your health care provider about the prognosis before surgery.

Convalescence:
The amount of time it takes to recover from surgery depends on the individual. Based on an evaluation of your health status prior to surgery, your health care provider can give you a good estimate of the recovery time.

Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are:

Risks for any surgery are:



Cost:
The costs of any surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. Patients who are fairly young or old, very sick, or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.

Surgery charges can be devided into five parts: 1) the surgeon's fee, 2) the anesthesiologist's fee, 3) the hospital charge, which includes nursing care and the operating room, 4) the fee for medications, and 5) any additional charges.

1. Surgeon's fee: variable
2. Anesthesiologist's fee: averages $350 to $400 per hour
3. Hospital charges: basic rate averages $1,500 to $1,800 per day (more for the intensive care unit (ICU) or private rooms)
4. Medication charges: $200 to $400
5. Additional charges: This catagory can include charges for any other requirement encountered. The total may include fees for: assisting surgeon(s), treatment of complications, diagnostic procedures (such as blood tests or X-rays), medical supplies, equipment use, etc.

Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance.