High-intensity laser therapy (HILT)

High-intensity laser therapy (HILT) is a type of medical treatment that involves the use of concentrated light. Light from a laser (which stands for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) is adjusted to certain wavelengths, unlike light from most other sources. This enables it to focus on high-powered beams. 

Laser light is so powerful that it can be used to cut steel or shape diamonds. Lasers in medicine allow surgeons to work with extreme accuracy by focusing on a tiny region and causing less damage to the surrounding tissue. When compared to standard surgery, laser treatment may result in less pain, edema, and scars. Laser therapy, on the other hand, may be costly and requires many sessions.

What is laser therapy used for?

Laser therapy may be used to:

 

·         shrink or destroy tumours, polyps, or precancerous growths

·         relieve symptoms of cancer

·         remove kidney stones

·         remove part of the prostate

·         repair a detached retina

How is laser therapy done?

Laser therapy techniques vary based on the procedure. If a tumour is being treated, an endoscope (a thin, lighted, flexible tube) may be used to direct the laser and view tissues inside the body. The endoscope is inserted through an opening in the body, such as the mouth. Then, the surgeon aims the laser and shrinks or destroys the tumour. In cosmetic procedures, lasers are usually applied directly to the skin.

 Who shouldn’t have laser therapy?

 Some laser surgeries, such as cosmetic skin and eye surgeries, are considered elective surgeries. Some people decide the potential risks can outweigh the benefits of these types of surgeries. For example, some health or skin conditions may be aggravated by laser surgeries. As with typical surgery, poor overall health also increases their risk of complications.Talk to their doctor before deciding to undergo laser surgery for any kind of operation. Based on their age, overall health, healthcare plan, and the cost of laser surgery, their doctor may recommend that you choose traditional surgical methods. For example, if you’re younger than 18 years, you should not get Lasik eye surgery.

 How do I prepare for laser therapy?

Plan to ensure that you have time to recover after the operation. Also, make sure someone can take you home from the procedure. You will likely still be under the influence of anaesthesia or medications.A few days before the surgery, you may be advised to take precautions such as stopping any medications that can affect blood clotting, such as blood thinners.