The safe use of lasers in biomedicine: Principles of laser-matter interaction

Abstract

Optical radiation sources, and in particular lasers, find an ever-increasing number of applications in the medical field. It is essential that personnel who are in the presence of an optical radiation source, whether operator, patient or researcher, know precisely the risks inherent in the exposure of the human body to radiation. In order to reduce the risk of biological damage, beyond the provisions of the law on safety regulations, the precise information and accurate preparation of personnel are the main guarantee for the correct use of these sources. In all the application fields, the possibility of a biological damage cannot be completely eliminated, assuming the connotation of occupational risks. In order to understand the risks and operate their effective mitigation, the basic knowledge of the fundamental concepts at the basis of laser-matter interaction will be presented and discussed, with a focus on the physical parameters needed to efficiently estimate and mitigate the related occupational risks, in both a laboratory and clinical context.

Applicability of the 1470 Nm Diode Laser in Facial Aesthetics: An Evidence-Based Review

“…The application of lasers in rejuvenation treatments within Aesthetic Medicine has evolved significantly since the advancement of knowledge surrounding selective photothermolysis in the 1980s [9]. The laser demonstrates unique behaviour when its interaction with biological tissues is examined [10]. Although the fundamental nature of this light has remained consistent, the depth of…”