What does the term "spot size" refer to in laser therapy?

The term "spot size" in laser therapy specifically refers to the diameter of the laser beam at its point of contact with the target tissue. It is a crucial parameter because it influences the energy density delivered to the tissue; a smaller spot size results in higher energy concentration, while a larger spot size distributes energy over a wider area, which can affect the efficacy of the treatment. Understanding spot size is essential for practitioners to optimize outcomes in various laser applications, ensuring precise targeting and minimizing surrounding tissue damage.