Day: September 5, 2025

Overview of Fiber Lasers in Medicine

Fiber lasers have had a major impact in various areas, including fundamental research, molecular detection, laser surgery, and biomedical research. Experts continue to make progress in multiple studies using modern fiber laser technology. They are applied in mid-IR laser spectroscopy, photodynamic therapy, and other fields.

This article focuses on the applications of fiber lasers in these two areas of medicine.

The current trend is to identify the most effective applications for fiber laser systems, as with any medical equipment. They provide pain relief for patients during treatment, and advanced laser modules increase treatment effectiveness. High-precision laser beams allow maximum efficiency in minimal time. Additional benefits of fiber lasers include the ability to perform delicate procedures, minimal scarring, and fast recovery.

Fiber Lasers for Mid-IR Spectroscopy

Mid-infrared spectroscopy (mid-IR) is a standard, non-destructive method of chemical analysis used in laboratories.

Biomedical Applications

New biomedical applications are particularly important due to rising healthcare costs and the need for rapid, non-destructive measurement technologies. In resource-constrained environments, compact mid-infrared laser modules are critical for biomedical sensing applications.

The characteristics of fiber lasers, including benchtop applications, make them especially suitable for biomedical use. They provide high power spectral density and, consequently, a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). With current technology, final measurements can be obtained in seconds.

Advances in fiber laser systems have improved clinical environments and treatment outcomes.

Fiber Lasers for Diabetes Monitoring

Glucose monitoring in diabetes is one application of mid-infrared spectroscopy.

Modern Monitoring Process

Glucometers are among the most widely used wearable biomedical sensors. Glucose monitoring is an essential part of a patient’s life and can be performed via finger-prick tests or wearable glucose monitoring devices. Both types have a limited lifespan due to degradation. Mid-infrared spectroscopy can address some measurement challenges, though it also has certain limitations.

In modern practice, the device is placed on the patient’s skin, a flash lamp is activated, and broadband radiation is transmitted through the fiber channel into the skin. Scattered and reflected optical signals are collected via receiving optical fiber channels and interference filters to CCD arrays. Specialists then view the data on a display.

Fiber Laser Systems for Photodynamic Therapy

PDT, or photodynamic therapy, is a treatment that uses a drug activated by laser light. It is particularly effective in destroying cancerous and precancerous cells, including those in the lung, skin, bladder, brain, and more. In cancer treatment, photodynamic therapy is typically applied in early stages under endoscopic observation. Certain photosensitizers are also used to treat bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.

Overview of Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy is generally a local treatment, targeting specific areas of the body. The affected area is irradiated with a fiber laser beam. Light exposure generates a reactive form of oxygen that destroys cancer cells.

The PDT process involves two main stages:

1. Introduction of photosensitizers into the body;
2. Light exposure.

The interval between these phases can vary from 10 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the disease and its stage. Methods of light exposure depend on the location of the pathological site:

• Direct light exposure;
• Endoscopic light exposure;
• Intraoperative light exposure (during surgery);
• Intravenous light exposure (blood photomodification).

PDT in Ophthalmology

In ophthalmology, fiber lasers are used for PDT to treat certain eye diseases, most commonly age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Its role remains somewhat limited. Photosensitizers are injected intravenously and selectively accumulate in abnormal blood vessels. A low-power laser beam activates the light-sensitive drugs, which destroy or seal abnormal vessels without harming surrounding cells. Specialists view PDT as a method to slow disease progression and preserve vision.

As fiber laser use continues to expand across medical fields, laser modules have proven effective. They have been instrumental in developing a wide range of fiber laser systems and in generating useful theoretical and experimental results. This is particularly true in the medical industry, where fiber lasers are extensively used.

Overview of Fiber Laser Systems

Low-power fiber laser systems have demonstrated excellent results in a variety of applications. In the medical field, they lead to improved patient outcomes and provide convenient, user-friendly tools for healthcare professionals. In science, they enable significant innovations and developments. For example, in research, they are used to analyze processes such as chemical reactions.

Fiber Laser System Characteristics

Today’s advanced fiber lasers deliver impressive performance while maintaining compact size and ease of use. As a result, they are in demand across many applications, such as aerospace and research. Year after year, fiber laser systems continue to improve and evolve.

Advantages of Laser Modules

The laser modules use a silica glass fiber optic cable as the light guide. Due to its small size and linear structure, the laser beam is more accurate. While providing high beam quality, fiber lasers offer advantages in robustness and safety. Laser modules occupy little space, are highly efficient, and have low maintenance and operating costs.

Fiber Laser System Applications

Different types of fiber lasers have found various applications. In particular, they are widely used in medicine, from diagnostics to cutting and non-invasive procedures.

Key Medical Areas

Fiber laser systems are used in the following areas:

Urology; Brain tissue treatment; Arthroscopy; Bone and cutaneous surgery; Ophthalmology; Photodynamic therapy (PDT); Biomedical sensing – mid-infrared spectroscopy; Dentistry; Lithotripsy, and more.

In surgical applications, doctors use the laser beam as a scalpel. Typically, fiber lasers are employed for minimally invasive surgery and with mini implants. Each new generation of laser products provides smaller and thinner tools. Fiber laser technology is a promising solution for the future.

Brain Tissue Treatment by Fiber Laser Systems

Fiber laser systems are used in neurological surgeries designed to treat neurological pathologies and oncology. The critical aspect of these surgeries is the specialized instruments capable of cutting tissue while providing optimal operating conditions for both patients and medical staff. For precise, bloodless surgery with minimal thermal damage, fiber lasers have proven effective. They provide surgeons with instruments for precise tissue removal. Laser modules can be integrated into flexible cutting tools, allowing access to hard-to-reach brain areas.

Neurological Cancer Surgery

Neurological cancer surgery requires precise technology capable of removing tumor cells and tissue without damaging nearby healthy structures. This is complicated by the location of neurological cancers, which may adhere to bone structures and cause bleeding if blood vessels are damaged, making visibility difficult for the surgeon. Therefore, a range of instruments is used in the operating room to dissect, fragment, and resect tissue effectively.

Application of Fiber Lasers in Arthroscopy

Every year, more surgeons adopt fiber lasers. Previously, fiber lasers were less compact and less affordable. As they have become easier to use and less invasive, they are now available for a wider range of surgical procedures. Fiber lasers have revolutionized microsurgery, minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.

Arthroscopic Surgery Procedure

Arthroscopic surgery can use fiber lasers. Arthroscopy is a medical procedure for diagnosing and treating joint problems. Through a small incision, a narrow tube is inserted, connected to a fiber-optic video camera. A high-resolution monitor displays all details inside the joint.

In arthroscopy, laser module devices have improved the precision of cutting and ablation while providing access to hard-to-reach areas.

Overall, fiber laser systems in medicine have become multifunctional instruments for soft-tissue surgeries. Their ability to cut and coagulate simultaneously makes them indispensable in microsurgery.

Overview of Fiber Laser Applications

Over the past decades, fiber lasers have gained popularity across different industries due to their qualities and benefits. Depending on their capabilities, they are applied in industrial sectors as marking or cutting instruments, in medicine, and in science as tools for extremely precise procedures and processes. They have become universal machines developed for the most demanding applications. Here are some examples.

Fiber Lasers for Cytometry

Fiber lasers provide the basis for advanced cytometry instruments. Their accuracy and efficiency are the driving force behind the development of flow cytometry for particulate matter analysis.

Flow Cytometry Explained

Flow cytometry is a laser-based technology for the measurement, identification, and counting of particles or cells.

Using fiber lasers, researchers can perform high-resolution measurements and detailed analyses of particle size, shape, and composition. Fiber laser systems are used to detect any disturbances in the cells.

Flow cytometry uses fiber laser systems with varying wavelengths as light sources. These lasers illuminate cells suspended in a liquid stream. This illumination allows scientists to isolate biomarkers for analysis, identify abnormal cells, and count or sort cells based on specific characteristics. The versatility and accuracy of fiber lasers contribute to advances in particle characterization, enabling a deeper understanding of complex particle systems in scientific and industrial applications.

Fiber lasers support the continuous development of flow cytometry to meet the analytical requirements of scientific and medical research.

Fiber Laser Systems for Holography

Fiber lasers have revolutionized holography by providing a stable and coherent light source for creating high-quality holograms.

Holography Technology

Holography is a method of recording information based on the interference of waves, enabling the creation of three-dimensional images using a fiber laser light source. The precise quality of the laser beam and its ability to deliver high power in a compact form make fiber lasers an ideal choice for holographic applications. Their reliability and versatility have contributed significantly to the advancement of holography technology, opening new possibilities in entertainment, security, scientific visualization, and medical imaging.

Fiber lasers enable the creation of intricate and detailed holographic images, advancing holographic displays, security features, and 3D imaging. They have also facilitated the development of cutting-edge holographic technologies for applications in art, virtual reality, and data storage, expanding their impact across multiple industries.

Fiber Lasers for Optical Measurements

Optical metrology measures physical properties in a non-contact manner. One of its most widely used tools in the optical industry is interferometry.

Advantages in Optical Metrology

Interferometry is a measurement technique based on wave interference. It is a long-established technology improved by modern electronics and software. It has been applied in multiple scientific fields, including space exploration and environmental measurements.

The advantages of fiber lasers have helped this technology reach a new level in astronomy, engineering, and other fields.

Key advantages include:

Easy to Install and Use

Optical measurement systems are easier to set up than other technologies, which is particularly useful when workpieces change frequently. Using optical technologies simplifies and accelerates installation and operation.

Measurement Accuracy

Another significant advantage is high accuracy, measurable down to the nanometer range. Modern high-quality fiber lasers provide coherent and stable light, enabling precise dimensional measurements in interferometric setups.

Non-Contact Process

In addition to accuracy, fiber lasers enable non-contact measurements without damaging objects. This is particularly important for fragile or delicate samples, allowing specialists to obtain measurements in seconds and receive real-time analysis.

Fiber lasers are versatile tools with broad applications across many fields. Their flexibility and performance make them an essential component in advanced scientific processes.