A M Troilius1. 1. Department of Dermatology, University Hospital, Malmoe, Sweden.
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: It is well known that the Q-switched Nd:Yag (QSNd:YAG) laser works well in the treatment of blue-black tattoos and benign pigmented lesions. It is less well known that this laser can also treat traumatic tattoos after accidents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve patients with traumatic tattoos were treated with a QSNd:YAG laser, 1064 nm. RESULTS: Gravel, mascara, high explosives, and older tattoos responded best with total clearance after 2-5 treatments. Hard materials such as asphalt, amalgam, and metal needed 6-11 treatments, and there was not always complete clearance. Transcient hypopigmentation but no scarring was seen. CONCLUSION: QSNd:YAG laser treatment of traumatic tattoos is effective, atraumatic, and a good alternative to mechanical dermabrasion or other conventional therapies.
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: It is well known that the Q-switched Nd:Yag (QSNd:YAG) laser works well in the treatment of blue-black tattoos and benign pigmented lesions. It is less well known that this laser can also treat traumatic tattoos after accidents. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twelve patients with traumatic tattoos were treated with a QSNd:YAG laser, 1064 nm. RESULTS: Gravel, mascara, high explosives, and older tattoos responded best with total clearance after 2-5 treatments. Hard materials such as asphalt, amalgam, and metal needed 6-11 treatments, and there was not always complete clearance. Transcient hypopigmentation but no scarring was seen. CONCLUSION: QSNd:YAG laser treatment of traumatic tattoos is effective, atraumatic, and a good alternative to mechanical dermabrasion or other conventional therapies.