title: To ablate or not: a proposal regarding nomenclature.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Vague and inexact word usage can complicate conversations about cutaneous energy devices, especially novel technologies.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To identify some areas in which descriptions of lasers, lights, and energy devices can be improved.
  
  
  METHODS
  Ambiguities in descriptions of energy devices are addressed by suggesting sets of modifiers that are precise, accurate, simple, and mutually exclusive.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Terms are proposed for distinguishing between devices that induce skin injuries of different depths. Additionally, descriptors are suggested for fractional treatments, fat melting, and cellulite reduction. Finally, we propose a scheme for clearly naming the underlying technology associated with any cutaneous energy device.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Novel devices yet to be invented may not fit into the designations proposed and may require additional categories.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Simple changes in word usage may facilitate rapid and accurate communication regarding lasers, lights, and other energy devices.
authors.affiliation: Departments of Dermatology, Otolaryngology, and Surgery, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA. m-alam@northwestern.edu
authors.forename: Murad
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Alam
authors.forename: Jeffrey S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Dover
authors.forename: Kenneth A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Arndt
mesh_terms: D000273:Adipose Tissue / Q000601:surgery*; D003880:Dermatology / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D007834:Lasers; D015595:Skin Aging; D009626:Terminology as Topic