Nd:YAG Laser Therapy

Abstract

The Nd:YAG laser is an important all-rounder in dermatological laser practice and the treatment of choice for some indications, such as eruptive angioma on pre-tanned skin, deep-lying lip angiomas, and facial venous ectasias. These and all other indications for Nd:YAG laser therapy are described in detail in the following chapter. At the same time, the Nd:YAG laser is also the most dangerous laser in dermatology with regard to its risk for atrophic scars in the case of inadequate handling. Careful parameter selection and cooling of the epidermis parallel to the treatment are important prerequisites for working with this laser without side effects. With numerous hints, the reader is made aware of all known pitfalls.

The term Nd:YAG is derived from the Greek words neós and didymos (new twin). In 1885, Carl Auer von Welsbach succeeded in splitting the “rare earth” didym discovered in 1841 into the two elements praseodymium and neodymium, which generate salts of different coloration.

In the periodic table of the elements, neodymium has the atomic number 60 (60Nd) and belongs to the lanthanides and the group of “rare earths.” Because it tarnishes quickly (oxidizes), the heavy metal, which appears silvery white, should be preserved airtight.

Examples of applications of neodymium: component of the Nd:YAG laser (yttrium aluminum garnet laser) used in industry and medicine, production of the strongest magnets (e.g., MRT, loudspeakers, headphones), coloring of enamel and porcelain, and UV protection glass.