Does Nd:YAG laser primarily target hard or soft tissue?

The Nd:YAG (Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet) laser is primarily used for soft tissue applications due to its specific wavelength and the way it interacts with biological tissues. It operates at a wavelength of approximately 1064 nm, which is highly absorbed by pigments in soft tissues. This absorption ensures effective cutting, coagulation, and tissue vaporization without excessive thermal damage to surrounding structures.

While Nd:YAG lasers can be adapted for certain hard tissue procedures, particularly in dentistry and orthopedics, their primary use and efficiency are observed in soft tissue surgeries. This includes applications such as dermatological treatments, gynecological procedures, and oral surgery, where precise control and minimal collateral damage to adjacent tissues are crucial.

Therefore, the focus of the question on whether the Nd:YAG laser primarily targets hard or soft tissue supports the conclusion that soft tissue is the main target, making it the correct choice.