Mathematical modeling of selective photothermolysis to aid the treatment of vascular malformations and hemangioma with pulsed dye laser.

Pulsed dye lasers (PDL) are the standard of care in the treatment of cutaneous vascular disorders such as the port-wine strains or hemangiomas of infancy. Nonetheless, there is still uncertainty regarding the specific laser parameters that are likely to yield optimal clinical outcomes. Using mathematical modeling, we explain and associate clinical outcomes with laser wavelength, radiant exposure, and pulse time and shape. The model's prediction that a continuous PDL pulse of 0.45 ms with a radiant exposure of 6 J/cm(2) is equivalent to delivering a 1.5-ms pulse consisting of three pulses with a radiant exposure of 12 J/cm(2) is in agreement with clinical studies. The model also suggests that for vascular malformations involving vessel diameters in the range of 150-500 microm, one should use a PDL at a wavelength of 595 nm with a radiant exposure of at least 12 J/cm(2) and pulse time of 1.5 ms, delivered in three pulses. Whereas it is calculated that malformations with vessels smaller than 50 microm will not respond to PDL in any clinical setting, an excellent response to PDL treatment at either a 585- or 595-nm wavelength can be expected for malformations with vessel diameters of 50-150 microm. Epidermal cooling is highly recommended for all settings to minimize pain and the risk of side effects. Finally, the model is used to generate a reference table that suggests specific PDL parameters for the treatment of various malformations and hemangiomas. The table cannot replace a clinician's experience with respect to which and how parameters should be changed, but provides a defined window of parameters that should be tried to improve clinical response.