delivery system. The lasing material fixes the output wavelength of the laser and primarily
comprises a gas-filled tubular cavity (gas) or a solid-state medium. Lasers with differing
lasing material, wavelengths, beam shapes, and guidance methods, are used in the
operating room for various physiological effects. Four laser types that are typically used
in the operating room to coagulate, ablate, or remove soft tissue are carbon dioxide
(CO2), argon ion (Ar-ion), neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG), and gallium-
aluminum arsenide (GaAlAs).