Update on Flashlamp Pumped Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment for Port Wine Stains (Capillary Malformation) Patients

Abstract

Background and Aims: Currently, the method of choice for the treatment of port-wine stains is laser photocoagulation. Because of evolving treatment options, it is no longer enough for portwine stains merely to be lightened through laser treatment. The best course of management consists of the most appropriate laser that will produce the most complete clearing of a lesion in the fewest treatment sessions with the least morbidity. The goal is generally accomplished with the use of yellow-light lasers. Materials (Subjects) and Methods: Absorption of laser energy by melanin causes localized heating in the epidermis, which may, if not controlled, produce permanent complications such as hypertrophic scarring or dyspigmentation. Refinements of the results can be achieved by using the flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye laser (FLPDL) in conjunction with the cryogen spray cooling (CSC) system. In our related studies, the infrared thermal image instrument is used for doctors in determining the optimum laser light dosage and preventing the side effects caused by FLPDL. Topic application of angiogenesis inhibitor (Imiquimod) in conjunction with pulsed dye laser treatment for the PWS patients has been assessed for improvement of FLPDL treatment. Results: We present the clinical effect of FLPDL, and the efficacy and safety of cooled laser treatment of PWS birthmarks. Our clinical outcome in the laser treatment of patients with PWS has been achieved to maximize thermal impact on targeted vessels, while minimizing adverse complications. Conclusions: CSC in conjunction with FLPDL can improve the treatment of PWS. The infrared image instrument is helpful for doctors in determining the optimum laser light dosage. Topic application of angiogenesis inhibitor (Imiquimod) in conjunction with laser treatment for the PWS patients is promising in the near future.

Anesthetic Challenges During Laser Surgery of the Larynx Part 1. Biological Effect And Specific Laser Hazards

“…One treatment for port-wine stains involves pulse-dye tuned to hemoglobin, with surface dermal cooling to protect the surrounding tissue. 7 Photoablative effects -these effects come from the molecular disruption and ablation of tissue, with the resultant gases removing heat and protecting the surrounding tissue from thermal injury. Photoablative effects can be either at the microscopic level or at a macroscopic level.…”

Facial laser surgery

“…However, the disadvantage with Argon, CO 2 and Nd:YAG is scarring [31] . Best results are with flashlamp-pulse dye laser [32] . Patients are treated at interval of 4-6 weeks or on clinical judgement.…”