Update: Laser – an Everyday Tool with Underrated Risks Update: Laser – ein Alltagsgerät mit unterschätztem Risiko

Hohberger B, Schünemann M, Sperlich K, Stahnke T, Berlien HP, Jakobs FM, Weinand FS, Reidenbach HD, Schottenhamml J, Stachs O (2025)

Publication Type: Journal article, Review article

Publication year: 2025

Journal

Klinische Monatsblätter für Augenheilkunde Georg Thieme Verlag

DOI: 10.1055/a-2670-4581

Abstract

Lasers are present in nearly every aspect of modern life – in daily activities, medicine, and industry. While this innovative technology offers great benefits to society, it can also be misused, whether intentionally or unintentionally. Globalisation has fostered rapid development and wider distribution of high-energy lasers, including illegal trade and unregulated use, and has resulted in a rising number of laser-related eye injuries in recent years. This review addresses these concerns and compiles current knowledge on the subject. It begins with an overview of laser basics and historical milestones, then examines the physical and biological fundamentals of laser–tissue interactions. We discuss the latest laser innovations and the challenges they pose in introducing new technologies. An up-to-date overview of relevant laws and DIN standards for ophthalmic laser applications is provided, followed by a clinical perspective on laser attacks in civilian and military contexts and strategies for eye protection. The aim is to raise awareness of the potential risks associated with everyday laser use and to highlight the importance of safety measures alongside the many uses of lasers.

Authors with CRIS profile

Bettina Hohberger Department of Ophthalmology Julia Schottenhamml Department of Ophthalmology

Involved external institutions

Universitätsmedizin Rostock DE Germany (DE) Air Force Center of Aerospace Medicine DE Germany (DE) Bundeswehrzentralkrankenhaus Koblenz DE Germany (DE) Universität zu Köln DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Hohberger, B., Schünemann, M., Sperlich, K., Stahnke, T., Berlien, H.P., Jakobs, F.M.,... Stachs, O. (2025). Update: Laser – an Everyday Tool with Underrated Risks Update: Laser – ein Alltagsgerät mit unterschätztem Risiko. Klinische Monatsblätter für Augenheilkunde. https://doi.org/10.1055/a-2670-4581

MLA:

Hohberger, Bettina, et al. "Update: Laser – an Everyday Tool with Underrated Risks Update: Laser – ein Alltagsgerät mit unterschätztem Risiko." Klinische Monatsblätter für Augenheilkunde (2025).

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