What does Thermal relaxation refer to in the context of laser-tissue interaction?

Thermal relaxation in the context of laser-tissue interaction refers specifically to the time it takes for the tissue to cool down after it has been heated by the laser energy. This cooling process is crucial because it influences the amount of heat that the tissue can absorb and the duration of the thermal effects on the tissue.

When tissue absorbs heat from a laser, it undergoes thermal changes that can lead to effects such as coagulation, ablation, or vaporization, depending on the laser's parameters and the tissue characteristics. If the tissue cools too quickly, it may not reach the desired thermal effects, while if it remains heated for too long, there may be an increased risk of damage to surrounding tissues.

Understanding thermal relaxation times helps practitioners determine how long to apply laser energy and how to space laser treatments to maximize efficacy while minimizing damage to adjacent healthy tissues. This concept is vital in ensuring safe and effective laser procedures in medical and cosmetic applications.