Ophthalmic Lasers

With a general working knowledge of ophthalmic lasers, optometrists can better evaluate patients to determine when laser surgery may be most beneficial. The optometrist is involved in the post-operative care of the patient, with the ophthalmologist performing the actual surgery. Looking to the future when optometrists will be permitted to perform laser surgery themselves, this is an excellent guide for optometrists and optometry students on when and how to use the various ophthalmic lasers. Describes how to manage ophthalmic laser patients before, during, and after laser surgery. Covers the diagnostic and therapeutic uses of ophthalmic lasers. Discusses the newest advances in ophthalmic lasers to keep readers up-to-date on the subject. Lays the foundation for understanding the uses of all the available clinical lasers, as well as future laser systems, with a detailed explanation of each type of system. Covers the basics of lasers, how they work, what components are necessary, how their output is described, characteristics of laser radiation, the way lasers and tissues interact, and damage mechanisms that account for the clinical uses. Discusses new ophthalmic diagnostic uses of lasers in detail with up-to-date information on current and developing uses in this ever-evolving field. Provides detailed descriptions of many therapeutic uses of ophthalmic lasers in the anterior segment, such as vision correction, laser posterior capsulotomy, glaucoma treatment, laser iridotomy, and laser trabeculoplasty. Addresses clinical laser safety - an important topic for both students and practitioners. Follows a basic outline format, perfect as a convenient reference for the referring practitioner.