Experience using the carbon dioxide laser in the removal of cutaneous tattoos.
A preliminary study was undertaken to determine if the carbon dioxide laser was a suitable technique for the removal of tattoos. Twenty-eight patients with 47 tattoos had their tattoos removed by the carbon dioxide laser. The results were assessed by an independent observer 1 year after completion of treatment. The most satisfactory results were obtained in patients with discrete linear tattoos of amateur origin. In those with polychromatic blocked-in tattoos of professional origin, hypertrophic scars occurred and the overall result was unsatisfactory.
D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000209:etiology; D003116:Color; D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D007834:Lasers / Q000009:adverse effects; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D010865:Pilot Projects; D013653:Tattooing
D002245:Carbon Dioxide