The specificity of laser wavelengths and the precision of fiber optic light delivery have greatly enhanced the evolvement of non-invasive surgical techniques. Each laser has distinct uses depending on the wavelength and power output. The CO 2 Laser has an invisible far infrared output that is strongly absorbed by water. It is used to make surgical incisions. Fiber optic delivery is not available for the CO 2 laser so it is limited to external procedures.
Several lasers emit invisible near infrared light.
The weak absorption results in a deep penetration. Short, powerful pulses of near infrared light are used in eye surgery. Visible Spectrum Several lasers emit light in the visible region. The light from dye laser, KTP laser and argon lasers is absorbed by melanin and hemoglobin. They are useful for many procedures that require sealing off blood vessels.