Laser use and research in gastroenterology, gynecology, and general surgery: A status report

Objective and Background Data : Despite the burgeoning growth of laser appl ications in dermatology and plastic surgery, applications in other specialt ies have declined, Laser use in gastroenterology, general surgery, and gyne cology was examined over the past 3 years. Future trends and opportunities are discussed. Methods: The MEDLINE (R) database was scanned for scholarly publications between January 1, 1997, and January 1, 2000, and the number o f publications in these specialties was determined. A questionnaire was dis tributed to 362 general surgeons from the American Society for Laser Medici ne and Surgery (ASLMS) to assess current use and future needs. These result s were compared to the actual cases performed at a laser center over the sa me period. Results: Of 3331 publications, 21 (0.6%) covered gastroenterolog y (GE), general surgery (GS), gynecology (GYN), or laparoscopy (LAP), Keywo rd citations were 2 GS, 3 GYN, 7 GE, and 12 LAP. Questionnaire results and actual utilization were well correlated. Conclusions: Lasers are being used in these specialties despite slow development of novel uses. Opportunities exist for future applications.