Radiosurgery and Laser in Zoological Practice: Separating Fact from Fiction

Abstract

With increasing equipment acquisition by private practitioners, laser and radiosurgery units can no longer be considered as advanced tools of the referral veterinarian. Unfortunately, much of the marketing, lay publications, and conference presentations surrounding these instruments have been based on anecdote and opinion rather than science. This review aims to re-address the balance by consolidating and presenting the scientific literature on CO₂ laser and 4.0-MHz radiosurgery, in particular by citing those studies that have directly compared these surgical devices side by side. It is hoped that this information may provide the veterinarian with objective criteria that may be helpful when considering such a major equipment purchase.

Key words: zoological medicine, exotic pets, surgery, laser, radiosurgery