title: Laser-assisted rhytidectomy. A preliminary report.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is a surgical tool recognized for its capacity of combined simultaneous tissue transection and hemostasis without unwanted distant transmission of energy.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To determine the potential of laser-assisted rhytidectomy.
  
  
  METHODS
  A preliminary group of 18 patients were treated for facial rejuvenation by a technique of laser-assisted rhytidectomy with excellent results.
  
  
  RESULTS
  No major complications including hematoma were seen.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Based on these initial findings, we conclude that laser-assisted rhytidectomy shows great promise for better results with diminished risks.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000768:Anesthesia, General; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology; D015361:Rhytidoplasty / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods