Definition: A LASER is a device that can produce a very strong light beam; the beam can be used to cut or burn tissue during surgery. It can also be used to provide light for something called photodynamic therapy in cancer treatment.
The word LASER stands for "light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation." There is no x-radiation (like an x-ray) used, but since light is a form of energy that "radiates," it is part of the term. Other forms of energy can be used, like microwave, in which case the term used to describe it is MASER. The LASER is only a tool, sort of like scissors made of energy. It is not a treatment, per se.
Pronunciation: LAY-zer
Alternate Spellings: L.A.S.E.R.
Common Misspellings: laser lazer
Examples:
A carbon dioxide LASER was used to cut some scars or adhesions around the ovary during surgery, but a biopsy showed that the scars contained ovarian cancer.
