What is the laser CO2;
The CO2 laser or carbon dioxide laser is the cutting-edge technology laser currently available in medicine. The CO2 laser takes its name from the carbon dioxide gas CO2 used as a medium for the emission of the laser beam. The laser beam it emits is essentially a beam of light in the infrared spectrum with a wavelength between 9.4 and 10.6 μm. It is the most powerful continuous wave laser available in medicine. Its applications in dermatology are very wide.
How does it work? laser CO2;
The wavelength emitted by a CO2 laser machine is ideally absorbable by water. In particular, water when it receives the laser beam boils and evaporates. However, water is the main component of the tissues of the human body at a rate of 70 to 90%. Consequently, the CO2 laser causes sublimation of the tissue it hits. This is the basic operating principle of the laser on which we base a wide range of applications.
Where do we use laser CO2 in dermatology?
Laser CO2 platforms in dermatology are now particularly ergonomic and easy to use by the dermatologist. Depending on the field of application, we have two modes of operation: surgical (surgical CO2 laser) and fractional (fractional CO2 laser).
Where do we use the surgical carbon dioxide laser?
The CO2 surgical laser is mainly used in clinical dermatology. Here the beam sublimates the target with a continuous shot without sending thermal energy to adjacent tissues. It is therefore ideal for precision invasive procedures since it essentially καίει ό,τι βλέπει. More specifically, it applies to:
-cauterization of papillomas
-cauterization of hyperkeratosis
-surgical laser excision (instead of scalpel)
-hemostasis in surgery
-cauterization of skin lumps
In the area treated with the laser, a dry crust forms, the same size as the burned lesion. We usually avoid deep burning. This crust will be the basis for the creation of new skin. In addition, the dermatologist gives care instructions that include antibiotics and healing/regenerative local treatments. In place of the crust, new pink healthy skin will form, requiring protection from sunlight. Eventually, the pink skin takes on its normal color after about 2-3 months.
Where do we use fractional laser CO2;
Fractional CO2 laser is essentially the emission of a uniform beam of laser rays with a certain duration, energy and density of shot per certain surface. In this way, it sublimates "islands" of skin in a certain area in a controlled manner in terms of density, intensity and depth. These "islands" will be the new skin regeneration nuclei in the area. This function has found application in treatments:
-surgical scars
-keloids
-body stretch marks
-tightening loose skin
The skin after the CO2 fractional laser session is irritated, red, swollen. Also, the main feeling after the session is itching or even mild pain. However, this irritation is desirable as it shows the degree of effectiveness of the treatment, always combined with its aggressiveness. It is good for the dermatologist to always inform the patient about the expected intensity of the symptoms. Subsequently, these symptoms gradually improve and last for a few days. Usually, the dermatologist recommends soothing creams for a few days and the use of sunscreen in photoexposed areas.
