ABSTRACT
This chapter will review the cardiovascular applications of lasers from their initial experimental use shortly after the invention of the laser, through a period of unrealistic expectation and enthusiasm, and to the present period of skepticism. The medical and scientific bases for the application of lasers are summarized so that the causes for failure as well as the potential for benefit of cardiovascular uses can be understood in developmental perspective. Medical terms and conditions are explained for the physical scientist. Laser-tissue interaction is stressed. Engineering and ancillary physical science topics such as fiber optics are omitted for lack of space.
