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excimer laser n a laser that uses a compound of a halogen and a noble gas to generate radiation usu. in the ultraviolet region of the spectrum
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a laser that can remove very thin sheets of tissue from the surface of the cornea of the eye. This can be done to alter the curvature of the corneal surface, for example to treat long- or short-sightedness (see LASEK, LASIK), or to remove diseased (e.g. calcified) tissue from the corneal surface. See keratectomy.
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[excited dimer] a laser with rare gas halides as the active medium whose beam is in the ultraviolet spectrum and penetrates tissues only a small distance; the beam breaks chemical bonds instead of generating heat to destroy tissue. Used in ophthalmologic and dermatologic procedures and in laser angioplasty.Medical dictionary. 2011.