Comparison study of a Q-switched alexandrite laser delivered with versus without compression in the treatment of dermal pigmented lesions.
BACKGROUND
The Q-switched laser is the treatment of choice when attempting to improve dermal pigmented lesions. However, purpura and dyspigmentation are frequently observed after treatment.


OBJECTIVE
To compare the efficacy and complications of the Q-switched alexandrite laser when delivered with versus without compression in the treatment of dermal pigmented lesions.


METHODS
Ten patients with dermal lesions were enrolled in the study. Each patient had a lesion treated with the Q-switched alexandrite laser delivered with compression. Each patient also had a lesion treated with the Q-switched alexandrite laser delivered without compression with the same fluence and spot size. The patients were evaluated for efficacy and treatment-related side effects.


RESULTS
There was no significant difference in efficacy, but purpura and dyspigmentation were more likely when pigmented lesions were treated without compression.


CONCLUSIONS
Purpura from Q-switched laser treatment in darkly pigmented skin is due to mechanical injury of blood vessels. It is well known that pressure 'diascopy' eliminates blood from cutaneous vessels by coapting the vessel lumen. In this study, we used pressure applied by a glass window on the Q-switched laser handpiece to remove cutaneous blood during laser exposure, making it possible to reduce purpura and dyspigmentation.
Kono
Taro
T
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan. tkono@prs.twmu.ac.jp
Groff
William F
WF
Chan
Henry H
HH
Sakurai
Hiroyuki
H
Nozaki
Motohiro
M
D000328:Adult; D044466:Asian People; D001608:Beryllium / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005148:Facial Dermatoses / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D017495:Hyperpigmentation / Q000628:therapy*; D007564:Japan; D053844:Lasers, Solid-State / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D028022:Low-Level Light Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome
C112654:alexandrite; D001608:Beryllium