Certified Nurses Operating Room (CNOR) Practice Exam

Which of these laser types is known for use in cardiac procedures?

1. Holmium

2. Eximer

3. Argon

4. Erbium

The correct answer is: Eximer

The excimer laser is known for its application in cardiac procedures, particularly in the context of selective tissue ablation and enhancing blood flow by targeting specific areas in the cardiovascular system. Its ability to produce high-energy ultraviolet light allows for precise tissue removal without affecting surrounding structures, making it suitable for delicate procedures often encountered in cardiology. In addition to cardiac applications, excimer lasers have been utilized in other medical fields such as ophthalmology for corneal refractive surgery. This versatility and precision are essential in cardiac interventions where precision is critical to avoid damaging adjacent vital tissues. Other options like holmium, argon, and erbium lasers primarily serve different purposes. Holmium lasers are commonly used in urology for stone fragmentation, argon lasers find applications in dermatology and ophthalmology, while erbium lasers are often utilized in plastic surgery and dermatological applications, focusing on skin resurfacing rather than cardiac use. Thus, excimer lasers stand out for their specificity in cardiac procedures.