Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to compare a traditional green KTP laser to a new investigational yellow laser (PhotoLase) in the treatment of facial telangiectasia in terms of the treatment outcomes. The secondary objective was to assess the functionality and reliability of the PhotoLase system from the perspective of the user.
Introduction: Several lasers are used for vascular indications, but the standard lasers are yellow pulsed dye laser (585- or 595-nm) and green potassium titanyl-phosphate (KTP) laser (532-nm), because their wavelengths are close to the absorption peaks (542 and 577 nm) of oxyhaemoglobin. To address the needs of the dermatologic community a novel laser technology, namely optically pumped semiconductor disk laser (SDL), has emerged to provide a compact and cost-effective alternative for a yellow laser source.
Materials / method: The study was a randomized split-face double-blinded study that compared the treatment efficacy of the 532-nm KTP laser and the investigational 585-nm PhotoLase laser. One or two treatments were given based on the response of the first treatment. The improvement of telangiectasia was graded according to a 7-point Telangiectasia Grading Scale (TGS) by the subjects and blinded physicians. The subjects assessed the amount of pain during the treatments using Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and evaluated adverse effects 2–3 days after the treatment(s) using a self-assessment form.
Results: At least 50% improvement was seen in 15/18 subjects after the first PhotoLase treatment, and a similar result was observed for KTP. There was no difference in the frequency of erythema, crusting or purpura between the devices, but less edema was seen after PhotoLase treatment (p<0.05). Treatment with PhotoLase was evaluated to be 4.7-fold faster than with KTP and the PhotoLase system was more compact, narrower, lighter, and easier to carry than KTP.
Conclusion: The investigational PhotoLase laser enables significantly faster treatments, providing a similar clinical outcome in the treatment of facial telangiectasia.
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
