title: Q-switched ruby laser treatment of tattoos; a 9-year experience.
abstract: Nine years of clinical experience of the application of the Q-switched ruby laser to the removal of tattoos is presented. This laser achieves optimal removal of blue/black amateur tattoos by its selective interaction with the dermal suspensions of pigment which constitute the tattoos. The scar free cosmesis thus achieved is a considerable improvement on non-specific laser techniques whereby the laser is absorbed to a comparable degree in both pigmented and non-pigmented tissue. Long-term results are analysed and it is noted that a variety of professional tattoos may also respond to treatment. The mechanisms and appearance are discussed and correlated with short-term healing processes. It is found that power densities in the range 1200-2800 GW/m2 are most suitable. Appropriate dosimetry can be witnessed by the appearance of opaque intradermal vacuoles corresponding to the vaporization of the tissue water surrounding the pigment suspensions. Treatment by Q-switched ruby laser offers a viable scar-free option for a wide range of dark tattoos, leading to a more acceptable clinical outcome in most cases than other current therapies.
authors: West of Scotland Regional Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery Unit, Canniesburn Hospital, Glasgow.
authors: W H
authors: WH
authors: Reid
authors: I D
authors: ID
authors: Miller
authors: M J
authors: MJ
authors: Murphy
authors: J P
authors: JP
authors: Paul
authors: J H
authors: JH
authors: Evans
mesh_terms: D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D010859:Pigmentation Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D010860:Pigments, Biological; D012086:Reoperation; D012880:Skin Pigmentation; D013653:Tattooing / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000523:psychology
chemical_list: D010860:Pigments, Biological