Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing: preliminary observations on short-term follow-up. A subjective study of 100 patients' attitudes and outcomes.
BACKGROUND
Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser resurfacing is enjoying broad medical acclaim. It is useful to assess patient morbidity and satisfaction with this procedure.


OBJECTIVE
Review the procedure from the patients' perspective with particular focus on the immediate and medium term postoperative period, the patient's progress after the initial 6-8-week period, the postoperative morbidity and complication rate, and the results and patient satisfaction with the procedure.


METHODS
One hundred resurfacing patients, who were treated after the advent of the computer pattern generator on a high-energy short-pulse CO2 laser, were studied. Patients were at least 3 months into their postoperative phase.


RESULTS
Outcomes of patients' problems were classed as good to excellent 78.8% of the time. Patient outcomes met the patients' preoperative expectations 68.9% of the time. Patients would have the procedure again if needed 78% of the time, and 84% would recommend the procedure to others. Patients reported continuing improvement after the initial 6-8-week healing period 72% of the time. Short-term morbidity was high (49%). Long-term complications were registered in 7% of patients but were mostly minor in nature.


CONCLUSIONS
Major indications for laser resurfacing such as wrinkles, sun damage, and acne scarring all appeared to do well with CO2 laser resurfacing.
Goodman
G J
GJ
Skin and Cancer Foundation of Victoria, Australia.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D062109:Dermatologic Surgical Procedures; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D002245:Carbon Dioxide