Holmium: YAG laser is a laser emitted from solid prepared by doping Holmium to YAG material. Its wavelength is in the near-infrared area at 2.1μm. It has the longest wavelength that can be transmitted by a quartz fiber. Characteristically having a large tissue absorption and less thermal injury around the site of irradiation, this new laser is being used not only for angioplasty and treatment of ureterostenosis but also for lithodialysis and ablation of bone tissue.
We studied the effects of Holmium: YAG laser irradiation on vital tissue macroscopiccaly and histopathologically. This time, we report our experience of Ho: YAG laser application to head and neck region. Additionally, we discuss its characteristics by comparing it with CO₂ laser, Nd: YAG laser and KTP laser those are already in wide use clinically. Much expectation is placed on further clinical application of this laser, to head and neck region.