Reliant’s Fraxel Laser Side Effects Assessed

Investigators seeking to determine the frequency and range of side effects and complications associated with fractional photothermolysis treatment reported that the technology was effective in the treatment of photodamaged skin and scars, with minimal postoperative recovery. Method Their study using the 1,550-nm erbium-doped Fraxel laser from Reliant Technologies Inc., was a retrospective evaluation of 961 successive 1,550-nm erbium-doped laser treatments conducted in one center in patients with Fitzpatrick skin types I through V. Side effects and complications of treatment, including time of onset and duration, were identified and tabulated. Patient demographics and laser parameters were also assessed. Results Seventy-three treatments (7.6%) resulted in development of complications, most commonly acneiform eruptions (1.87%) and herpes simplex virus outbreaks (1.77%). Side effects and complications were equally distributed across different ages, skin types, body locations, laser parameters, and underlying skin conditions, except for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which occurred with increased frequency in patients with darker skin phototypes. Conclusion Noting that side effects and complications seen were temporary, without long-term or significantly severe effects, investigators concluded that fractional laser skin treatment is associated with a relatively low complication rate. Gaber EM, Tanzi EL, Alster TS. Side effects and complications of fractional laser photothermolysis: Experience with 961 treatments. Dermatol Surg. 2008; 34 (3), 301–307.