Carbon dioxide laser guidelines

Ds Krupa Shankar, M Chakravarthi, Rachana Shilpakar, Ds Krupa Shankar, M Chakravarthi, Rachana Shilpakar

Abstract

The carbon dioxide (CO(2)) laser is a versatile tool that has applications in ablative lasing and caters to the needs of routine dermatological practice as well as the aesthetic, cosmetic and rejuvenation segments. This article details the basics of the laser physics as applicable to the CO(2) laser and offers guidelines for use in many of the above indications.

Keywords: CO2 laser; CO2 pixel; dermatological surgery.

Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest: None declared.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Earlobe keloid before laser
Figure 2
Figure 2
Earlobe keloid after laser
Figure 3
Figure 3
Melanocytic nevi before laser
Figure 4
Figure 4
Melanocytic nevi has healed without scarring after laser
Figure 5
Figure 5
Pre-treatment photograph of rhinophyma
Figure 6
Figure 6
Laser ablation of rhinophyma has healed well with mild residual surface irregularity
Figure 7
Figure 7
Beckers melanosis on face before treatment
Figure 8
Figure 8
Significant reduction in pigmentation due to Beckers melanosis after laser
Figure 9
Figure 9
Verrucous epidermal nevus involving left cheek and neck
Figure 10
Figure 10
Verrucous epidermal nevus on cheek cleared with mild post-inflammatory hypopigmentation and scarring
Figure 11
Figure 11
Granuloma telangiectaticum, pre-treatment
Figure 12
Figure 12
Effective ablation of granuloma telangiectaticum by laser
Figure 13
Figure 13
Multiple, brown-black papules of Dermatosis papulosa nigra on face
Figure 14
Figure 14
Dermatosis papulosa nigra effectively cleared with laser

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