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Use of Q‐switched alexandrite laser (755 nm, 100 nsec) for removal of traumatic tattoo of different origins
Author(s) -
MorenoArias Gerardo A.,
CasalsAndreu M.,
CampsFresneda Alejando
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
lasers in surgery and medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.888
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1096-9101
pISSN - 0196-8092
DOI - 10.1002/(sici)1096-9101(1999)25:5<445::aid-lsm12>3.0.co;2-q
Subject(s) - gunpowder , medicine , laser , surgery , dermatology , materials science , optics , physics , metallurgy
Background and Objectives Q‐switched laser systems have been used for removal of tattoo‐related carbon, graphite, and other particles. We assessed elimination of traumatic tattoos of different origin with Q‐switched alexandrite laser in nine patients. Study Design/Materials and Methods Fluence threshold was determined and a spot test was made. Q‐switched alexandrite laser, with a fluence range 4.5–8.0 J/cm 2 (mean, 7.16 ± 1.18), was used at 4–5‐week intervals. Total treatment ranged from 3–12 sessions (mean, 6.1 ± 3.6 sessions). Double‐pulse technique was used in black/black‐bluish areas, but single‐shot was applied to slate‐gray pigment. Results More than 95% lightening was achieved in five patients after 5.2 ± 2.3 sessions, and >75% lightening in six subjects after 6.1 ± 3.1 sessions of treatment. Blacktop, surgical pen, and gravel tattoos presented a better response than gunpowder/fireworks tattoos (>95% vs. 68.7 ± 23.9% clearance), or tattoos of unknown origin (>95% vs. 62.5 ± 53% clearance). Epidermal splattering and pinpoint bleeding were observed in one case. No pigmentary alteration or scarring was seen. Conclusion The Q‐switched alexandrite laser is a useful system for removal of traumatic tattoos of diverse origin. The best response (>95% clearance) was achieved in blacktop, surgical pen, and gravel tattoos, although an acceptable degree of lightening may be obtained in tattoos due to gunpowder or fireworks. Lasers Surg. Med. 25:445–450, 1999. © 1999 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.