The interaction of a pulsed alexandrite laser with hard and soft biological tissue

L.M. Paterson, M.R. Dickinson, T.A. King, D. Watts

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

An alexandrite laser has been used in the fixed-Q and Q-switched modes, at the fundamental and frequency doubled wavelengths on a selection of hard and soft tissue. In an investigation into the potential use of the laser for the removal of deep lying lesions such as cutaneous vascular lesions and tatoos, studies have been carried out to characterize the depth and extent of the laser/tissue interaction in samples of tissue which greatly absorb the 750 nm radiation. The interaction of the laser radiation with extracted teeth was investigated looking at healthy enamel and dentine, and caries. Surface profile measurements of the enamel and dentine before and after irradiation show little physical effect of the laser irradiation, whereas caries appear to be ablated.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationLaser Interaction with Hard and Soft Tissue
EditorsMartin J. C. van Gemert, Rudolf W. Steiner, Lars Othar Svaasand, Hansjoerg Albrecht
PublisherSPIE
Pages27-38
Number of pages12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Feb 1994
EventEuropto Biomedical Optics '93 - Budapest, Hungary
Duration: 29 Aug 19933 Sept 1993

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
PublisherSPIE
Volume2077
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Conference

ConferenceEuropto Biomedical Optics '93
Country/TerritoryHungary
CityBudapest
Period29/08/933/09/93

Keywords

  • laser tissue interaction
  • tissues
  • natural surfaces
  • laser dentistry
  • teeth
  • alexandrite lasers
  • Q switching
  • absorption
  • dental caries
  • Q switched lasers

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