The Surgical Laser:

A Veterinary Surgical Advancement

By: Michael Lamping, DVM

          Medical advances have made many procedures available which had previously been restricted to the imagination.  The carbon dioxide surgical laser is just such an advance.  This laser is an intense, finely-focused beam of infrared light that allows for a contact-free incision. 

            The surgical laser has replaced the scalpel blade for nearly every surgery we perform at Murphy Road Animal Hospital.  We are so impressed by the benefits of this innovative device that we have decided to incorporate it as standard surgical procedure instead of reserving it only for special circumstances.  The benefits are numerous.  Due to excellent control of bleeding, it decreases the surgical anesthesia time and improves the precision of incisions.  Additionally, the surgical laser helps control post-operative pain and swelling.  The difference is dramatically noticeable with feline declaw surgeries, for which the laser eliminates the need for tourniquets during the procedure, reduces the length of the required hospitalization, and significantly improves the post-surgical recovery.  I remember one kitten that pawed at me wanting to play a mere two hours after surgery.  Many cats would have had to endure more bleeding, swelling, and discomfort had a more traditional technique been administered.

            Laser surgery has applications from the head to the toes, the eyes and nose, and the ears and rears.  I have been performing laser surgery for five years and I continue to be amazed at the difference it makes.  It is a privilege to offer this service at Murphy Road Animal Hospital.