Revision of full-thickness skin grafts using the carbon dioxide laser.

The occasional hypertrophic scarring that occurs with full-thickness skin grafting can be effectively revised using the carbon dioxide laser. This technique can be precisely performed due to the limited zone of destruction produced by this wavelength of laser energy when it has contact with living, soft tissue. Additionally, the hemostasis provided by this instrument allows excellent visibility and provides maximum opportunity for proper control. The technique utilized in this procedure will be presented.