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Use of Lasers in Wound Healing: How to Best Utilize Laser Technology to Prevent Scar Formation

  • Wound Care and Healing (H Lev-Tov, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Dermatology Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to evaluate the efficacy of early intervention in wound healing on scar formation across multiple scar types and progressions. The types of scars consist of hypertrophic, atrophic, keloid, and contracture scars. The sources of scarring include inflammatory diseases (e.g., acne), surgery, burn, and trauma.

Recent Findings

Minimal published research has been done regarding laser treatment in wound healing. Some studies have found promise in minor treatment of surgical wounds but few have sufficient clinical relevance. Recently, further studies have been conducted including examination of aggressive laser treatment in burn and trauma victims. Results have been positive and raise the question of which wounds would benefit from treatment.

Summary

Early intervention with laser treatment is a promising path in wound healing to prevent scarring. While more research remains to be done, emerging studies and practices provide increasing support for its use as a viable and potentially life-changing treatment for many patients.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Miami Dermatology and Laser Institute, 7800 SW 87th Avenue, B200, Miami, FL, 33173, USA

    Jill S. Waibel, Chloe Gianatasio, Ashley Rudnick & Abigail Siegel

Authors
  1. Jill S. Waibel
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  2. Chloe Gianatasio
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  3. Ashley Rudnick
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  4. Abigail Siegel
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Jill S. Waibel.

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The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Human and Animal Rights and Informed Consent

This article does not contain any studies with human or animal subjects performed by any of the authors.

Additional information

This article is part of the Topical Collection on Wound Care and Healing

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Waibel, J.S., Gianatasio, C., Rudnick, A. et al. Use of Lasers in Wound Healing: How to Best Utilize Laser Technology to Prevent Scar Formation. Curr Derm Rep 7, 303–310 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13671-018-0240-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13671-018-0240-y

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