The evaluation of long‐pulsed Nd:YAG laser efficacy and side effects in the treatment of cutaneous vessels on the face and legs

Abstract

Background Long‐pulsed Nd:YAG lasers have been used for the treatment of cutaneous vascular lesions on face and leg veins. Objective To report our experience with long‐pulsed Nd:YAG lasers for the treatment cutaneous vessels on the face and legs. Materials and Methods A total of 145 patients with cutaneous vessels on the face and the legs were included in this study. All patients received two treatment sessions, first at the beginning and second after four weeks. Patients were evaluated three times: first at the beginning of the therapy, and second and third after the four weekly follow‐ups. The laser settings of each treatment session were recorded. The physician's assessment of treatment efficiency was taken by comparing gross photograph and clinical evaluation. The grade of improvement, as the percent of reduction in the severity of veins after laser treatment, was determined as follows: <25% improvement (mild); 25%–50% improvement (moderate); 51%–75% improvement (good); and >75% improvement (excellent). The side effects were also recorded. Results Of the 145 patients who completed the study, 63.6% of patients had vessels on the face, and 36.4% had them on the legs. After the first session, 82.8% of patients have good improvement (51%–75%). After the second session, 78.6% of patients have excellent improvement (>75%). The clinical improvement after the second treatment session was significantly higher than the first treatment session (P ˂ .05). There were no statistical differences between the treatment areas (P ˃ .05). The most common side effect was erythema in 12.4% (P ˃ .05). Conclusion The Nd:YAG laser is an effective and safe treatment option for the treatment of cutaneous vessels on the face and the legs.

Assessment of the Effectiveness of Treatment of Vascular Lesions within the Facial Skin with a Laser with a Wavelength of 532 nm Based on Photographic Diagnostics with the Use of Polarized Light

“…Mild vascular lesions in the facial area are a common dermatological issue which might cause low self-esteem and even diminish quality of life, as evidenced by means of Dermatology Life Quality Index in patients suffering from rosacea [ 20 ]. With the advent of laser techniques, treatment of these lesions is fast but depends on the laser wavelength thus depth of penetration [ 21 , 22 ].…”

Updates and Best Practices in the Management of Facial Erythema

“…Microsecond, millisecond, and nanosecond (Q-switched) Nd:YAG lasers produce wavelengths at 1064nm, its chromophore is hemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin. 21 , 32 This laser can reach depths of 4–6mm and can treat much larger vessels with diameters in the 1–3mm range; however, as higher fluences and larger spot sizes are used there is an increased risk of excessive pain and dermal damage. 21 , 32 This laser is particularly good at treating thicker and bigger vessels with clinically blue-colored hues.…”

“… 21 , 32 This laser can reach depths of 4–6mm and can treat much larger vessels with diameters in the 1–3mm range; however, as higher fluences and larger spot sizes are used there is an increased risk of excessive pain and dermal damage. 21 , 32 This laser is particularly good at treating thicker and bigger vessels with clinically blue-colored hues. 33 Treatment of smaller vessels often requires high energy and short pulse durations which increase the risk of purpura as well as blistering and scarring.…”

“… 33 Treatment of smaller vessels often requires high energy and short pulse durations which increase the risk of purpura as well as blistering and scarring. 32 , 34 Appropriate skin cooling is imperative to prevent scarring especially when treating deeper vessels that require higher energy. 32 , 35 One benefit of Nd:YAG lasers is the ability to safely treat patients with darker skin complexions mainly due to the minimal absorption of melanin.…”

“… 32 , 34 Appropriate skin cooling is imperative to prevent scarring especially when treating deeper vessels that require higher energy. 32 , 35 One benefit of Nd:YAG lasers is the ability to safely treat patients with darker skin complexions mainly due to the minimal absorption of melanin. 34 Since this laser can be used for permanent hair reduction, patients must be notified of this effect when treating vessels in hair bearing areas.…”