Use of Q-switched alexandrite laser (755 nm, 100 nsec) for removal of traumatic tattoo of different origins

✍ Scribed by Moreno-Arias, Gerardo A.; Casals-Andreu, M.; Camps-Fresneda, Alejando

• Publisher: John Wiley and Sons
• Year: 1999
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 217 KB
• Volume: 25
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0196-8092
• DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1096-9101(1999)25:5<445::aid-lsm12>3.0.co;2-q

✦ Synopsis

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 Qswitched 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.