Our Clinical Webinars
Our experts deliver practical, up-to-date content to help you enhance your treatment techniques and stay ahead in the field of medical lasers.
Whether you're refreshing existing knowledge or expanding your expertise, our webinars offer actionable insights and real-world solutions for your practice.
Upcoming Events
Dates in October and November
Friday, October 10, 2025 - 9:00 AM (German time)
Language: English
Clinical Webinar: Glaucoma Laser Treatments
Laser Solutions for Open-Angle Glaucoma – Targeted, Gentle, Effective
A laser-based solution for every stage of glaucoma.
Speaker: PD Dr. Bernd Kamppeter
Wednesday, November 5, 2025 – 5:00 PM (German time)
Language: English
Endothelial Safety First: NanoLaser in Cataract Surgery
Make a difference – supported by 5-year real-world data
Learn more about modern cataract surgery and how does it work without ultrasound BUT with maximum endothelial protection.
Speaker: Dr. Lutz Blomberg
Academy Live
Fundamentals of Laser
Laser design
A laser is a device that generates monochromatic, coherent and focused light by amplifying an optical wave through the process of simulated emission.
A laser system is composed of three main components:
- an active laser medium, in which laser radiation is generated.
- an energy source that causes a population inversion in the active medium.
- a resonator made up of two mirrors between which the light is reflected several times. The light wave is amplified each time it passes through.
Laser principle
The operation of a laser is fundamentally based on the phenomenon of stimulated emission, which is preceded by a process known as pumping. This involves exciting the atoms or ions in the active medium using an external energy source, in order to achieve a population inversion. This condition is met when there are more charges in the excited state than in the ground state.
After a period of time, the excited charges return to the ground state. This releases energy in the form of light (photons). This process is known as spontaneous emission.
Photons emitted on the optical axis of the resonator are reflected to the active medium by the resonator's mirrors. As a reflected photon passes back through the active medium crystal, it may release a second charge from the excited state, returning it to the ground state. The resulting photon has the same direction, frequency, phase, and polarization as the first photon. The two photons are therefore coherent with each other. This process, known as stimulated emission, is then repeated continuously until the population inversion of the active medium is reached.
Finaly, some of the light generated in this way is coupled out through one of the resonator's partially reflecting mirrors and can be used as laser light.
Laser types
Nd:YAG laser – Q-Las
The Q-Las is a solid-state laser.
More specifically, this ophthalmic laser is an Nd:YAG (neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet) laser. It is optically pumped through a laser diode (µ-Chip technology). During the pumping process, the Nd³⁺ ions in the YAG crystal absorb light emitted by the diode and are excited to higher energy levels. Once the population inversion threshold is reached the crystal is ready to generate laser radiation.
The Nd:YAG crystal is embedded in a resonant optical cavity consisting of two parallel mirrors, one of which is fully reflective and the other partially transmissive.
The photons then move back and forth between the mirrors, triggering successive stimulated emissions. This process amplifies the light until a coherent, collimated, monochromatic laser beam (1064 nm) emerges through the partially transparent mirror.
The diode pumping technology sets the Q-Las apart from the competition. Read more about µ-Chip technology.
SLT Laser – Cito 532
The CITO 532 is a solid-state laser.
More specifically, it is an ophthalmic frequency-doubled laser (generation of the second harmonic) that works with µ-Chip technology.
As well as an Nd:YAG crystal (Q-Las), the CITO 532 contains a KTP crystal (KTP: potassium titanyl phosphate). This nonlinear optical crystal without an inversion center has exceptional optical and electro-optical properties. A primary laser beam, generated by the Nd:YAG crystal, passes through the KTP crystal, where the second harmonic effect occurs. The photons of the original Nd:YAG laser beam interact with the KTP crystal to create new photons with twice the energy (i.e. twice the frequency or half the wavelength) of the original photons. The non-linear effect of the KTP crystal leads to the creation of a new beam with twice the frequency, efficiently converting an infrared laser beam (1064 nm) into a visible laser beam (532 nm). Diode pumping technology is also used at CITO, setting us apart from the competition. Read more about µ-Chip technology.
NanoLaser
The Cetus NanoLaser is a solid-state laser.
More specifically, it is an actively Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet) operating at a wavelength of 1064 nm in the near-infrared range. The Nd³⁺ ions in the YAG crystal are excited and, through active Q-switching, release high-intensity nanosecond pulses with minimal thermal load.
The NanoLaser finds application in ophthalmology—more specifically, in cataract surgery. Unlike traditional systems, the Cetus NanoLaser is triggered externally by pneumatic pulses from a phaco machine, to which it is connected via the vitrectomy port.
The foot switch controls the laser firing rate through the phaco machine’s cutting rate, with one laser pulse per pneumatic pulse, making it a seamless upgrade to existing phaco systems.
The laser beam is absorbed within the titanium tip of a single-use handpiece, generating a plasma induced shockwave that exits through a side opening and gently fragments the occluded lens material without the laser light entering the eye.
This ensures a precise, low energy, and atraumatic alternative to conventional phacoemulsification.
Diode Lasers
The FOX IV 810 & WOLF 980 I 1470 laser systems utilize advanced diode laser technology.
Diode lasers generate light through electroluminescence: when an electric current passes through the diode’s p-n junction, electrons recombine with holes, releasing photons. These photons are amplified inside a tiny resonant optical cavity by stimulated emission, producing a coherent, monochromatic, and highly directional laser beam.
Diode lasers are compact, energy-efficient, and offer fast modulation. Their emission wavelength depends on the semiconductor material, allowing precise tailoring of the laser output across a broad spectrum in the near-infrared (810 nm, 980 nm) and beyond (1470 nm).
This makes them ideal for precise applications in ophthalmology, ENT, surgery, and veterinary medicine.
Our use of diode laser technology ensures reliable, high-performance devices that set the FOX IV 810 as wells WOLF 980 and WOLF 1470 apart.
Precision-Tuned Semiconductor Lasers
ARC Laser’s ArgonGreen and TruBlue systems represent a major advancement in semiconductor laser technology. Unlike conventional diode lasers, they are built using advanced semiconductor manufacturing techniques that enable superior performance and precision. Operating in the visible spectrum, ArgonGreen emits a sharply defined 514 nm green wavelength, while TruBlue produces a pure 445 nm blue beam. Both systems deliver exceptionally stable, high-purity outputs. Their precision, reliability, and optical quality make them outstanding tools for applications in ophthalmology and ENT surgery, surpassing the performance of traditional laser systems.
Together, FOX 514 and Classic 514 Laser form ARC Laser’s Argon Green line blending tradition with breakthrough technology for outstanding ophthalmic care.
While Argon lasers were traditionally gas-based and widely used for retinal photocoagulation, ARC Laser has revolutionized this classic wavelength by bringing it back with innovative semiconductor technology and exceptional precision optics.
combining the proven benefits of the 514 nm wavelength with the efficiency and reliability of modern diode lasers. ARC Laser is the only company offering 514 nm photocoagulation lasers with this advanced semiconductor technology.
The gentler 514 nm wavelength ensures smoother coagulation, greater patient comfort, and less pain. – link to article
TruBlue is a pioneer of the powerful 445 nm wavelength, offering a unique combination of the benefits of both KTP and CO₂ lasers in one versatile device. Setting a new standard in ENT surgery, the Wolf 445 nm laser is transforming operating rooms worldwide with its exceptional performance, specifically tailored for advanced ENT applications.
µ-Chip Technology Line
µ-Chip Technology Line
In contrast to conventional Nd:YAG or KTP lasers, which use a flash lamp as a pump source, the energetic excitation of our µ-Chip Technology Line lasers is achieved by means of a special laser diode.
As a result, these lasers offer higher energy efficiency, prolonged lifetime, and great pulse-to-pulse stability.
Pump diodes emit directional radiation that is precisely focused onto the active laser medium disk.
This targeted emission allows for the full utilization of the emitted optical power. This simplifies optical alignment and makes the system much more robust. Pump diodes enable more stable pumping, thus guaranteeing constant output power.
In contrast, a flash lamp emits light in almost every direction necessitating the use of complex optical systems to redirect sufficient light toward the active medium. In addition, the lamp's intense emissions cause progressive degradation of its components. This degradation reduces the efficiency of the pumping process and, in the long term, reduces laser performance. Consequently, flash lamps are not only less energy-efficient but also have a lifetime ten times shorter than pump diodes.
One of the main advantages of the µ-Chip technology is the use of pump diodes whose emission spectrum exactly matches the crystal's absorption spectrum.
The intensity is also matched. This guarantees high energy efficiency, minimal losses, and low heat generation.
In contrast, the emission spectrum of a flash lamp is very broad, covering the entire visible spectrum as well as part of the ultraviolet spectrum. However, since the absorption spectrum of the laser crystal is narrow, much of the emitted radiation cannot be absorbed. This results in significant energy loss and excessive heating of the system. Furthermore, the high intensity of UV radiation emitted by a flash lamp can damage laser components.
Thanks to easier heat management and a stable p-n junction, laser diodes have à high, stable energy supply.
This ensures constant laser emission with high energy efficiency and excellent durability due to its electrical and thermal stability. Therefore, laser diodes are clearly superior to flash lamps in terms of energy efficiency, durability, and consistent performance.
In terms of emission, pumping with a flash lamp is susceptible to fluctuations. The tube of the flash lamp is filled with gas (cf. fluorescent tubes in ceiling lights). The energy yield of the flash lamp depends on various factors, such as temperature and gas pressure in the tube. As these variables are not constant, the energy supply fluctuates.
Lasers equipped with μ-Chip technology boast the highest repetition rates.
This allows us to produce the world's fastest SLT or Nd:YAG laser frequencies, reaching up to 10 Hz. The Nd:YAG offers this frequency across all three burst modes. Additionally, A.R.C. Laser's µ-Chip Technology Line lasers are faster and more efficient thanks to their special pump diodes. This enables uniform laser application in the shortest possible treatment time.
By contrast, competitors' products offer a maximum of 4 Hz. For Nd:YAG lasers, the frequency is typically reduced to 1 Hz when using double or triple pulses.
These comparatively slow repetition rates are due to the capacitors' charging delay in flash lamp technology.
ArgonGreen Technology Line
ArgonGreen Technology Line
Argon Green technology marks a major advancement in retinal laser therapy by reintroducing the clinically effective 514 nm wavelength using modern semiconductor technology. Known for its strong absorption in melanin and hemoglobin, the 514 nm wavelength enables precise and controlled photocoagulation. While traditional gas-based argon lasers were phased out in favor of solid-state alternatives at 532 nm and 577 nm, these replacements often compromised on treatment precision and patient comfort.
Developed by ARC Laser, the new semiconductor-based Argon Green system delivers the original therapeutic benefits of the 514 nm wavelength in a compact and efficient format combining clinical effectiveness with improved usability and patient experience.
Same Clinical Results, Noticeably Less Pain
While 514 nm, 532 nm, and 577 nm lasers deliver comparable clinical outcomes, including similar histological effects, visual acuity, and OCT findings, patient experience sets them apart.
Treatments performed with 514 nm are consistently reported as less painful, particularly during high-density applications like grid coagulation in diabetic retinopathy.
This improved comfort leads to fewer interruptions, shorter treatment sessions, and better patient cooperation, making 514 nm an optimal choice for both physicians and patients.
Optimized Absorption: Melanin-Dominant, Gentle on Vessels
Laser energy in retinal photocoagulation is primarily absorbed by chromophores melanin,hemoglobin, and xanthophyll. Among these, melanin in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is the ideal target for controlled and effective coagulation.
- Xanthophyll is minimal and does not play a role at 514nm.
- The 514 nm wavelength offers approximately 45% higher absorption in melanin than 532 nm, leading to precise, pigment-focused energy delivery.
At the same time, 514 nm avoids the strong hemoglobin absorption peaks seen with 532 nm and 577 nm lasers.
This results in:
Gentle interaction with blood vessels, reducing trauma to vascular structures
Lower risk of vascular rupture, hemorrhagic complications, or unintended thermal injury
Significantly reduced pain perception
Xanthophyll absorption: practically zero risk
Yellow lasers often promote their “zero xanthophyll absorption” as a safety feature. However, ARC’s 514 nm laser offers similarly negligible absorption (only 3.97/cm), over 375 times smaller than melanin (1506/cm).
Xanthophyll, a protective pigment concentrated in the macula, must be preserved during treatment. With 514 nm, the energy absorbed by xanthophyll is virtually insignificant, eliminating any risk of thermal damage to central vision while still delivering effective peripheral coagulation.
514 nm achieves equivalent macular protection to yellow lasers while delivering superior therapeutic precision and enhanced patient comfort.
Pain Sensation and Vascular Absorption: Why Argon Green (514 nm) Feels Gentler
Laser-induced pain is closely tied to hemoglobin absorption in blood vessels, where pain receptors are most concentrated.
Unlike 532 nm and 577 nm, 514 nm avoids the absorption peaks of hemoglobin, leading to reduced nerve stimulation and a noticeably more comfortable treatment experience. This advantage is particularly important for procedures involving large spot counts, allowing patients to tolerate longer sessions with reduced discomfort and better overall compliance.
Power, Precision, and Control
Due to its lower hemoglobin absorption, 514 nm may require slightly higher power settings. However, this trade-off leads to:
Homogeneous burns, dominated by pigment absorption in the RPE
Gentler tissue response
Lower risk of overcoagulation, vessel damage, or hotspots
Despite the higher optical output, ARC’s semiconductor platform is highly energy-efficient, requiring less input power and ensuring reliable operation in modern clinical environments.
Research
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Collaborative Project OLE
Endoscopic, minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of middle ear infections
Further information available at:
https://www.uksh.de/…
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What the A.R.C. Laser Academy Offers:
- Clinical Webinars:
Dive into exciting, practice-oriented topics – always up-to-date, always relevant.
- Laser Safety Courses:
In collaboration with the Center for Applied Laser Medical Research at the University of Bonn, we offer certified laser safety courses based on OStrV and TROS "Laser Radiation" – ensuring your safety and legal compliance.
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Direct exchange with leading specialists – gain valuable tips and insights firsthand!