Treatment of facial telangiectasia: a novel application of flashlamp-pumped dye lasers

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Facial telangiectasia are common, acquired, vascular lesions. The most effective clinical management of these lesions involves lasers. The efficiency of laser therapy depends, however, on numerous factors, including the type of laser used and the experience of the operator. Furthermore, side effects such as purpura, oedema, hyperpigmentation and scarring jeopardize the acceptability of laser therapy for facial telangiectasia. OBJECTIVE: To increase further the efficiency of the flashlamp-pumped dye laser in the treatment of facial telangiectasia and reduce major side effects using a novel therapeutic protocol. METHODS: A 595-nm wavelength, 10-mm spot size and lower fluence (4-5 J/cm 2 ) were selected. The innovative practice consisted of scanning the lesion (two to three consecutive impulses delivered to the same area before moving the laser beam) with consecutive laser impulses below the purpura threshold. RESULTS: This practice leads to a progressive temperature increase, avoids vessel wall rupture and significantly reduces facial purpura and oedema. CONCLUSION: A novel generation of flashlamp-pumped dye laser, allowing treatments with increased pulse duration and modified fluence may completely eliminate postoperative side effects associated with the treatment of facial telangiectasia. ( J Dermatol Treat (2000) 11: 181-184)

• Dye Laser Purpura Vascular Lesions