Ignition potential of the 585-nm pulsed-dye laser. Review of the literature and safety recommendations.
BACKGROUND
The 585-nm pulsed-dye laser is the treatment of choice for many port-wine stains. The risk of accidental flash fires occurring with the pulsed-dye laser is considered minimal. Recently, however, there have been several reports of unwanted ignitions. These cases all share two features: 1) oxygen delivery by face mask, and 2) the ignition of a hair-bearing surface.


OBJECTIVE
We report a case of a laser-induced fire that occurred on a non-hair-bearing surface in a patient who was receiving oxygen by nasal cannula. The mechanisms, risk factors, and guidelines for the prevention of pulsed-dye laser-induced fires are presented.


METHODS
We reviewed the literature regarding the safety of pulsed-dye laser use.


RESULTS
Pulsed-dye laser-induced fires can occur on non-hair-bearing regions and in patients receiving oxygen by nasal cannula.


CONCLUSIONS
Precautions should be taken to prevent pulsed-dye laser fires regardless of treated region or method of oxygen delivery.
Fretzin
S
S
Department of Dermatology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, USA.
Beeson
W H
WH
Hanke
C W
CW
D002056:Burns / Q000209:etiology*; D002648:Child; D005148:Facial Dermatoses / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D005151:Facial Injuries / Q000209:etiology; D005390:Fires; D006222:Hamartoma / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D006801:Humans; D007834:Lasers / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D017751:Safety Management