Photons,Physiatrics,and Physicians: A Practical Guide to Understanding Interaction of Laser Light with Living Tissue: Part II: Basic Mechanisms of Tissue Destruction by Laser Beams*

This article provides an overview of the mechanisms of tissue destruction using laser beams. The four physical processes—photochemolysis, photothermolysis, photoelectrolysis, and photoplasmolysis—by which laser light destroys living tissue are discussed. All of the surgical laser wavelengths presently in use are analyzed with regard to their mechanisms of tissue destruction. The means to use each of these lasers more effectively based on their particular characteristics is offered. Finally an extensive glossary of physics terms that are of use to the laser surgeon both in understanding of the concepts discussed herein and in the performance of laser surgery is presented.