Objectives: The objective of the presentation is to introduce the long pulsed Nd:YAG laser discussing it's characteristics and use in dermatology. Both conventional and unconventional use will be covered.
Introduction: The 1064 nm long-pulsed Neodymium:Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser is a versatile and widely used device in dermatology.
Materials / method: At 1064 nm, the scattering is very low as well as the absorption by the major chromophores in the skin. Increasing the radiant exposure compensates for the low absolute values of absorption at 1064 nm. As a consequence, this laser is known for its deep penetration into the skin and homogenous heating of larger structures. The low absorption coefficient by melanin makes it a safe choice for treating darker skin types with lasers. Conventional use includes both vascular and hair-related indications.
Results: The long-pulsed NdYAG laser is commonly used for the treatment of blue telangiectasia in the face, leg veins and bulky vascular lesions like hypertrophic port wine stains. Moreover, it is the first choice for laser assisted hair reduction in skin types V and VI. Beyond these established indications there are many unconventional indications in dermatology. The skin disorders that have been published to improve with the NdYAG laser are numerous and can be classified into vascular conditions, inflammatory disorders, hair follicle related disorders, infectious disorders and malignant disorders.
Conclusion: However, the evidence to support the routine use of the Nd:YAG laser for these unconventional indications is poor. Future research is needed to proof the benefit for these indications. The LEAD registry, which is supported by the EADV and the ESLD, will provide evidence for the uncommon medical indications for different lasers including the Nd:YAG laser.
Disclosures
Did you receive any funding to support your research for this TOPIC?
No
Were you provided with any honoraria, payment or other compensation for your work on this study?
No
Do you have any financial relationship with any entity which may closely compete with the medications, materials or instruments covered by your study?
No
Do you own or have you applied for any patents in conjunction with the instruments, medications or materials discussed in your study?
No
This work was not supported by any direct or non direct funding. It is under the author's own responsability