“…Since hydrogels inherently possess high water content, laser‐induced optical breakdown of hydrogels can be modeled, to some extent, on the optical breakdown of water. Several studies have investigated the optical breakdown of water and simulated biofluids at nano‐, pico‐, and femtosecond pulse durations and the effects of laser properties on shock wave emission, vapor generation, and cavitation . However, since the polymeric component of hydrogels also has a wide range of physical, biochemical, structural, and optical properties, it is important to understand their role in laser‐based degradation.…”