Safety of Combination Laser or Intense Pulsed Light Therapies and Doxycycline for the Treatment of Rosacea.

BACKGROUND: Current treatment options for rosacea include topical agents, oral therapies, phototherapy using lasers, or intense pulsed light (IPL). Combination therapy for rosacea often yields better results than monotherapy. The safety of laser/light treatments in combination with systemic doxycycline has been questioned because of the theoretical risk of photosensitivity. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence of phototoxicity or photosensitivity in rosacea patients receiving concomitant laser or light treatments and systemic doxycycline. METHODS: Treatment records of 36 patients receiving laser/light treatments while also being treated with standard dose or anti-inflammatory dose of doxycycline were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: No adverse reactions related to doxycycline combined with laser/light therapy were reported. Specifically, no photosensitivity or sensitivity to wavelengths in the pulsed dye laser (PDL), or IPL range was observed in this cohort. All patients achieved some degree of clearance. CONCLUSION: The results of this retrospective study demonstrate that doxycycline used in conjunction with laser or nonlaser light therapy is a valid combination therapy for improving signs and symptoms of rosacea. No photosensitivity reactions were observed to commonly used IPL or PDL devices.

Safety and efficacy of a novel diffractive lens array using a picosecond 755 nm alexandrite laser for treatment of wrinkles.

INTRODUCTION: Picosecond lasers have been reported to be effective for removal of tattoo pigment. This prospective study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the treatment of peri-oral and -ocular wrinkles using a novel diffractive lens array coupled with a picosecond 755 nm alexandrite laser. METHODS: Forty female subjects presenting with wrinkles from photodamage were enrolled in an IRB approved study. Subjects received four picosecond diffractive lens array treatments to the full face at 1 month intervals. Six subjects were biopsied (two subjects at 1 month, two subjects at 3 months, and two subjects at 6 months). Digital photographic images were taken at 1, 3, and 6 months post-final treatment visits. Images were graded by blinded physicians for fine lines/wrinkles, erythema, dyschromia, and global improvement. Data on discomfort level, satisfaction, and side effects were recorded. RESULTS: Overall blinded physician rated global improvement ranged from improved to much improved at 1-, 3-, and 6-month time points. At baseline the average Fitzpatrick wrinkle score was 5.48. At the 6-month follow-up the average score was 3.47. The overall average change in score from pre-treatment to post-treatment was 1.97. Subject self-assessment at 6 months indicated that 90% of subjects were extremely or satisfied with their results. Unanticipated adverse events were absent with anticipated post-treatment erythema lasting for just several hours. CONCLUSIONS: A novel diffractive lens array used with a picosecond 755 nm alexandrite laser for treatment of wrinkles is highly effective and safe for wrinkles and other signs of photoaging. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:40-44, 2017. © 2016 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Comparative outcomes of different endovenous thermal ablation systems on great and small saphenous vein insufficiency: Long-term results.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: This study examined the outcomes of over a decade of endovenous thermal ablation (EVTA) treatments for great and small saphenous vein (GSV and SSV) insufficiency, utilizing three different endovenous thermal ablation systems. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study reviewed EVTA treatments performed at an outpatient clinic (MDLSVI) from April 1999 to February 2013. Systems included 810 nm diode (hemoglobin targeting), 1,320 nm laser (water targeting) and a radiofrequency (direct thermal transfer) (RF) device. Clinical and ultrasonographic evaluation were performed before treatment and at each follow-up visit. Patients were examined yearly by Duplex ultrasonography. Success was defined as complete absence of reflux. RESULTS: Analysis of 934 treatments demonstrated that although recanalization could occur over time, endovenous ablation has a very high success rate. Ablation rates were 92.5%, 85.9%, and 71.9% at 6-months, 1-year, and 5-years after procedures. Recanalization occurred in 156 out of 934 treatments (16.7%) during the follow-up period. Among three difference systems, the total ablation success rate was significantly different (P < 0.001). The 1,320 nm Nd:YAG laser (n = 502) provided the highest ablation rate compared to the radiofrequency (n = 398) and 810 nm diode (n = 34) throughout their follow-up period, which were 8, 13, and 9 years, respectively. At 1-year follow-up, successful ablation rates of RF, 810 nm, and 1,320 nm were 78.2%, 80.8%, and 93.7%, respectively. At 5-year follow-up, successful ablation rates of RF, 810 nm, and 1,320 nm were 61.7%, 65.7%, and 84.7%, respectively. CONCLUSION: EVTA is very effective for ablation of the GSV and SSV. Complete ablation varied significantly among different systems with water targeting 1,320 nm providing the highest incidence saphenous vein ablation. This remained durable at 8-year follow-up by Duplex ultrasound.

Radiofrequency in cosmetic dermatology.

The demand for noninvasive methods of facial and body rejuvenation has experienced exponential growth over the last decade. There is a particular interest in safe and effective ways to decrease skin laxity and smooth irregular body contours and texture without downtime. These noninvasive treatments are being sought after because less time for recovery means less time lost from work and social endeavors. Radiofrequency (RF) treatments are traditionally titrated to be nonablative and are optimal for those wishing to avoid recovery time. Not only is there minimal recovery but also a high level of safety with aesthetic RF treatments.

Hyaluronic acid fillers: a comprehensive review.

Over the past decade, the popularity of nonsurgical cosmetic procedures has increased exponentially. Last year, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, more than 5 million procedures were performed using cosmetic injectables such as botulinum toxin and dermal filling agents. According to the society's recent statistics, more than 85% of all dermal filler procedures occurred with a hyaluronic acid derivative.These numbers are expected to rise in the future as there is currently no other class of filling agent that rivals the popularity of hyaluronic acid. The popularity of hyaluronic acid specifically stems from its effectiveness, ease of administration, and safety profile.

Autologous cultured fibroblast injection for facial contour deformities: a prospective, placebo-controlled, Phase III clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Previous data indicate that injections of autologous fibroblasts increase collagen formation, accompanied by a concomitant increase in thickness and density of dermal collagen. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine efficacy and side effects of autologous living fibroblast injections versus placebo in a randomized Phase III trial for the treatment of various facial contour defects. METHODS: This was a double-blind, randomized comparison of injectable living autologous fibroblast cells and placebo for the treatment of facial contour defects (N=215). Live fibroblasts (20 million/mL) or placebo (the transport medium without living cells) were given as three doses administered at 1- to 2-week intervals. Efficacy evaluations were performed 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months after the first injection. RESULTS: Living fibroblasts produced statistically significantly greater improvements in dermal deformities and acne scars than did placebo. The difference between live fibroblast injections and placebo achieved statistical significance at 6 months (p<.0001). At 9- and 12-month follow-up, live fibroblast-treated patients continued to demonstrate benefit from treatment with response rates of 75.0 and 81.6%, respectively. No serious treatment-related adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that autologous fibroblast injections can safely and effectively produce improvements in rhytids, acne scars, and other dermal defects continuing for at least 12 months after injection.

Monopolar radiofrequency facial tightening: a retrospective analysis of efficacy and safety in over 600 treatments.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Monopolar radiofrequency skin heating coupled with cryogen cooling of facial skin for skin tightening has been utilized on over 10,000 patients since 2002. In order to establish the actual rate and degree of side effects in our clinical experience, a retrospective chart review was performed. STUDY DESIGN: Charts and clinical images of over 600 consecutive patient treatments between May 2002 and June 2006 using a monopolar radiofrequency device (Thermacool, Thermage, Haywood, CA) for skin tightening at the Maryland Laser, Skin and Vein Institute were retrospectively reviewed. The primary presentation for treatment was skin laxity of the lower face. Treatment was delivered with a 1-cm2 standard tip at fluences of 81 to 124 J/cm2 (level of 12.5 to 15), a 1-cm2 "fast" tip at fluences of 62 to 109 J/cm2 (level of 72.0 to 76.0), a 1.5-cm2 "big fast" tip at fluences of 75 to 130 J/cm2 (level of 61.5 to 65), and a 3-cm2 "bigger" tip at equivalent fluences as each became available. As treatment algorithms evolved over 4 years, the algorithm of multiple passes at lower fluence associated with better clinical outcomes and greater patient acceptance has been adopted. RESULTS: The most common immediate and expected clinical effects were erythema and edema lasting less than 24 hours, although 6 patients reported edema lasting for up to 1 week. There were no permanent side effects. In total, 2.7% of treatments resulted in temporary side effects, the most significant of which was a slight depression on the cheek (n = 1), which completely resolved within 3.5 months. Other side effects included localized areas of acneiform subcutaneous erythematous papules (n = 4) and a linear superficial crust (n = 1) with the original tip, all of which resolved within 1 week. One patient reported small erythematous subcutaneous nodules resolving in 17 days. Tenderness of the neck lasting from 2 weeks (n = 2) to 3 weeks (n = 1) was also reported. CONCLUSIONS: Our data, obtained in an office setting without injectable anesthetic or i.v. sedation, indicate that monopolar RF for skin tightening is a very safe procedure. The treatment algorithm and tips have evolved over several years leading to increased safety and efficacy. Side effects are infrequent, self-limited, and minor, comparing favorably to other nonablative devices utilized for facial rejuvenation.

Clinical experience with light-emitting diode (LED) photomodulation.

BACKGROUND: Light-emitting diode (LED) photomodulation is a novel nonthermal technology used to modulate cellular activity with light. OBJECTIVE: We describe our experience over the last 2 years using 590 nm LED photomodulation within a dermatologic surgery environment. METHODS: Practical use of nonthermal light energy and emerging applications in 3,500 treatments delivered to 900 patients is detailed. RESULTS: LED photomodulation has been used alone for skin rejuvenation in over 300 patients but has been effective in augmentation of results in 600 patients receiving concomitant nonablative thermal and vascular treatments such as intense pulsed light, pulsed dye laser, KTP and infrared lasers, radiofrequency energy, and ablative lasers. CONCLUSION: LED photomodulation reverses signs of photoaging using a new nonthermal mechanism. The anti-inflammatory component of LED in combination with the cell regulatory component helps improve the outcome of other thermal-based rejuvenation treatments.

Our approach to non-ablative treatment of photoaging.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Many laser, light and energy emitting devices are utilized for skin rejuvenation. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: The clinical approach to multiple problems of photoaging are discussed and an algorithm for approach by problem is presented. RESULTS: Clinical use of various modalities such as LED photomodulation, intense pulsed light, pulsed dye laser, KTP laser, radiofrequency and fractional resurfacing are presented with successful parameters, developed over several years, utilized on a daily basis in a busy cosmetic dermatology clinic. CONCLUSIONS: Significant improvement in the appearance of signs and symptoms of photoaging, including telangiectasias, mottled pigmentation, irregular surface texture, wrinkling and skin sagging can achieved by relatively non-invasive means.

Rejuvenation of photoaged skin: 5 years results with intense pulsed light of the face, neck, and chest.

BACKGROUND: Photorejuvenation involves the use of lasers or light sources to reverse signs of photoaging. Multiple devices have been shown to be effective over the short-term. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the long-term clinical results on the face, neck and chest at 4 years using filtered flashlamp intense pulsed light (IPL) for treatment of photoaging changes of telangiectasias, dyspigmentation, and rough skin texture. METHODS: A chart review of 80 randomly selected patients with skin types I-IV who were treated by IPL during 1996 and 1997 was performed. Photos and patient self-assessment were graded for features of textural smoothness, telangiectasia severity, and blotchy pigmentation into four categories of worse, no change, slightly better (less than 50% improvement) and much better (greater than 50% improvement). RESULTS: At 4 years following initial treatment, skin textural improvement was noted in 83% of the subjects. Telangiectasias were improved in 82% of subjects, while pigmentation remained improved in 79%. The median number of treatments was 3. The face responded slightly better than the chest or neck. Most common side-effects included temporary mild crusting (19%), erythema (15%) and purpura (6%). CONCLUSION: Signs of photoaging including telangiectasias and mottled pigmentation of the face, neck, and chest, can be improved by IPL with a long-lasting result. Minimal or no downtime with minimal adverse effects can be achieved with the settings reported. Skin textural smoothing, although not easily quantified, is an additional benefit observed long-term.