Side effects from laser, light devices possible even with experienced providers

SAN FRANCISCO - Patients should be aware that side effects from laser and light devices for cosmetic procedures are possible even when performed by the most experienced providers, and those undergoing such procedures should seek out providers trained specifically in using this type of technology, according to research presented here.

In a poster presented at the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting, researchers described a combination treatment approach for healing a third-degree upper-lip burn as a result of Nd: YAG laser, utilizing pulsed dye laser.

The burn occurred 1 week following treatment of unwanted dark hairs on the face. Initial treatment involved the use of bactroban to prevent secondary infection.

Scar revision included the combined use of pulsed-dye laser (PDL) with triamcinolone 10 mg/mL and 5-fluorourcil (5-FU) injections every few weeks. After 1 year and 13 treatment sessions, significant improvement in the patient's scar was reported.

PDL has been shown to cause photothermolysis and coagulation of excessive vascular proliferation within hypertrophic scars, which helps with the realignment and remodeling of collagen fiber, according to the researchers.

Additionally, the procedure can benefit scar bulk, pliability, smoothness, pain, pruritus and erythema.

The researchers concluded that lack of training, inadequate patient information, failure to perform test treatments and the incorrect operation of the laser or light device include some sources of errors. Therefore, even physicians who are very experienced with using these technologies should have dermatologic training and the knowledge to manage complications, as well as laser-specific training. - by Abigail Sutton

Reference:

Bae-Harboe YSC, et al. Paper #1558. Presented at: American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting, San Francisco, CA. March 20-24, 2015.