What percentage of light is absorbed by the skin and subcutaneous tissue during treatment?

The correct answer indicates that approximately 50% of the light emitted during laser therapy is absorbed by the skin and subcutaneous tissue. This absorption rate is significant because it directly influences the effectiveness of the laser treatment. Understanding this percentage helps practitioners gauge how much energy actually penetrates deeper tissues and how much may be lost due to absorption at the surface level.

The properties of different wavelengths of light determine how much energy is absorbed by various tissues. In the case of Class IV lasers, which typically operate in the near-infrared spectrum, a substantial portion of the energy is absorbed by the chromophores in the dermis. This absorption capacity is critical when planning treatment protocols, as it informs clinicians about the energy efficiency and expected outcomes of the therapy. Understanding this absorption can guide decisions on laser settings, treatment duration, and frequency, ultimately affecting patient care and recovery outcomes.

Knowing that around 50% of the light is absorbed instead of a higher or lower percentage acknowledges the balance between efficacy and safety when using lasers in therapeutic practices, a key consideration for professionals administering such treatments.