Fiber lasers have gained significant attention due to their qualities, practical benefits, and wide applications. A variety of wavelengths allows specialists to use fiber laser systems in industrial environments for welding, cutting, and texturing. Ultraprecise fiber lasers are applied in fields where high accuracy is critical, such as medicine, micromachining, and scientific research.
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History of the fiber lasers’ development
The history of fiber lasers began with the invention of the first laser in 1961. Early lasers were complex and expensive, which limited their popularity. Fiber lasers found serious commercial applications only in the 1990s, as the technology gradually developed.
Modern improvements
Today, fiber laser technology continues to improve, producing more powerful and efficient systems. Specialists focus on increasing accuracy and reducing environmental impact. Combining outputs from multiple fiber lasers has enhanced both power and beam range.
Medical applications of ultrafast fiber lasers
Ultrafast fiber laser systems have many applications, with medicine being one of the most critical fields where they are indispensable.
Contribution to healthcare
Fiber lasers have greatly contributed to healthcare, used from therapy to surgery. Their high-power densities in sterile, noncontact processes enable efficient cauterization and faster recovery. Fiber laser technology has rapidly adapted to evolving medical procedures.
Fiber lasers in photodynamic therapy
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) uses fiber laser light to destroy abnormal cells. Initially, PDT was developed for specific cancer types, including cancerous and precancerous cells.
Further development of PDT
Advances in PDT have extended its application to general oncology and other cancers. This noninvasive or minimally invasive method shortens recovery time and is more convenient for patients.
Fiber lasers in dentistry
Fiber lasers have been used in dentistry for decades, providing faster, less painful treatments and shorter recovery periods.
Fiber lasers’ requirements in this sphere
Requirements for dental fiber lasers include essential characteristics such as wavelength and physical properties like size for optimal performance.
Fiber lasers for optical coherence tomography
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was initially developed for ophthalmology but now finds broader medical applications.
Diagnostic capabilities
OCT uses laser light to capture cross-sectional images for diagnostics. High-resolution images allow detection of small infections at early stages and aid in monitoring treatments.
Fiber lasers for aesthetic applications
Fiber lasers are increasingly used in aesthetic, cosmetic, and dermatology procedures. Compared to CO2 lasers, fiber lasers now demonstrate high effectiveness due to technological advances.
Efficiency and procedures
Fiber laser systems are used for precise radiation treatments. Wavelength, beam quantity, and design determine efficiency and penetration depth. Multiple fiber lasers can be arranged to target a line or specific areas.
Common applications
Common aesthetic uses of fiber lasers include skin resurfacing and tattoo removal. Advanced procedures include treatment of vascular lesions, micro-preparation of skin, and psoriasis. With ongoing advancements, fiber lasers are becoming more powerful and precise, making them essential in medical procedures and scientific research.