Research and development of additional aids for dermatologic and plastic surgery.

Increasing numbers of accessories continue to be found to make laser surgery more effective for dermatologic and plastic surgery. Argon laser surgery aids are available to increase the dilatation of the superficial vessels and to localize increasing numbers of red cell masses. Laser probes for intravascular thrombogenesis and thrombolysis have now been adapted for intradermal and deep dermal tissues and for cardiology. Studies on laser effects on platelets and heat transmission and thromboembolic phenomena are lacking. Investigative studies are developing for laser fiber optic probes for laser-induced fluorescence, not only for oncology, but also for studies of metabolism of tissues and also for spectroscopy. The use of different wavelengths and shorter pulses, more flexible fiber-optics transmission for all laser systems, combinations of laser systems into a single operating probe, as well as the increased use of lasers for diagnosis and treatment will all stimulate the development of new aids for laser surgery. Cooperative programs developed jointly by dermatologic and plastic surgeons will make for great progress in skin and soft-tissue laser surgery.