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Review
. 2025 Mar;55(2):251-284.
doi: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2024.11.005. Epub 2025 Jan 3.

Applications for Laser in Veterinary Dermatology

Jason B Pieper  1 , Amelia G White  2
Affiliations
Review

Applications for Laser in Veterinary Dermatology

Jason B Pieper et al. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2025 Mar.

Abstract

Laser usage in veterinary dermatology has increased in popularity over the last several decades. Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is the leading modality in surgical laser for veterinary dermatology because of its unmatched performance with soft tissue, particularly the skin. This laser cuts and coagulates tissue via the photothermal effect of laser energy when interacting with soft tissues with high water content, such as skin. CO2 laser modality has many indications for the diagnosis and treatment of dermatologic conditions in animals. This article will review the basics of CO2 laser and how to utilize it in veterinary dermatology.

Keywords: Carbon dioxide; Dermatitis; Laser; Otitis; Surgery; Veterinary dermatology.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure Dr J.B. Pieper is an assistant professor for dermatology at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He has received honoraria from VetScalpel for continuing education seminars. He has no other relevant disclosures for this article. Dr A.G. White is a clinical professor of dermatology at Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. She has received honoraria from VetScalpel for continuing education seminars. She has no other relevant disclosures for this article.

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