Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Laser-Assisted Drug Delivery.

Importance: Laser-assisted drug delivery (LADD) is used for various medical and cosmetic applications. However, there is insufficient evidence-based guidance to assist clinicians performing LADD. Objective: To develop recommendations for the safe and effective use of LADD. Evidence Review: A systematic literature review of Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, and MEDLINE was conducted in December 2019 to identify publications reporting research on LADD. A multidisciplinary panel was convened to draft recommendations informed by the systematic review; they were refined through 2 rounds of Delphi survey, 2 consensus meetings, and iterative review by all panelists until unanimous consensus was achieved. Findings: Of the 48 published studies of ablative fractional LADD that met inclusion criteria, 4 were cosmetic studies; 21, oncologic; and 23, medical (not cosmetic/oncologic), and 6 publications of nonablative fractional LADD were included at the request of the expert panel, producing a total of 54 studies. Thirty-four studies (63.0%) were deemed to have low risk of bias, 17 studies (31.5%) had moderate risk, and 3 (5.5%) had serious risk. The key findings that informed the guidelines developed by the expert panel were as follows: LADD is safe in adults and adolescents (≥12 years) with all Fitzpatrick skin types and in patients with immunosuppression; it is an effective treatment for actinic keratosis, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in situ, actinic cheilitis, hypertrophic scars, and keloids; it is useful for epidermal and dermal analgesia; drug delivery may be increased through the application of heat, pressure, or occlusion, or by using an aqueous drug solution; laser settings should be selected to ensure that channel diameter is greater than the delivered molecule; antibiotic prophylaxis is not recommended, except with impaired wound healing; antiviral prophylaxis is recommended when treating the face and genitalia; and antifungal prophylaxis is not recommended. The guideline's 15 recommendations address 5 areas of LADD use: (I) indications and contraindications; (II) parameters to report; (III) optimization of drug delivery; (IV) safety considerations; and (V) prophylaxis for bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Conclusions and Relevance: This systematic review and Delphi consensus approach culminated in an evidence-based clinical practice guideline for safe and effective use of LADD in a variety of applications. Future research will further improve our understanding of this novel treatment technique.

Energy-based devices for the treatment of Acne Scars: 2022 International consensus recommendations.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Acne scars are one of the most distressing and long-term consequences of acne vulgaris, with damaging effect on a person's physical, mental, and social well-being. Numerous treatment options are available including surgical and nonsurgical techniques, depending on the clinical presentation. Although considerable advances in the development of new treatment technologies and applications have been made in the last decade, international treatment guidelines and reimbursement schemes have not yet caught up with current knowledge and practice in many centers. The authors intend to highlight the potential utility of energy-based devices (EBDs) for acne scarring, offer recommendations for safe and efficacious treatment, and provide consensus-based EBD treatment options based on varying presentations demonstrated in a series of real-life clinical photographs. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: An international panel of 24 dermatologists and plastic surgeons from 12 different countries and a variety of practice backgrounds was self-assembled to develop updated consensus recommendations for the treatment of acne scars. A two-step modified Delphi method took place between March 2020 and February 2021 consisting of two rounds of emailed questionnaires. The panel members approved the final manuscript via email correspondence. RESULTS: The manuscript includes a comprehensive discussion and panel recommendations regarding the following topics: 1. the role of EBD in mitigating and treating acne scars in a patient with active acne, 2. the use of various EBDs for the treatment of different acne scar types with special focus on commonly used laser platform such as vascular lasers, ablative fractional lasers (AFLs) and non-AFLs (NAFLs), 3. treatment combinations, and 4. acne scar treatments in skin of color. The last part comprised of 10 photos of real-life clinical cases with the panel recommendation treatment plan to achieve best aesthetic outcome. CONCLUSION: Panel members were unanimous in their view that EBDs have a role in the management of acne scars, with AFLs, NAFLs, vascular lasers, and RF devices preferentially selected by most of the panel experts. EBDs are considered a first-line treatment for a variety of acne scar types and patients without access to these treatments may not be receiving the best available care for optimal cosmetic results. Future high-quality research and updated international treatment guidelines and reimbursement schemes should reflect this status.

Ablative fractional laser treatment of hypertrophic burn and traumatic scars: a systematic review of the literature.

Hypertrophic scars (HTS) following burns and other trauma and are associated with significant functional and psychosocial impairment. Ablative fractional lasers (AFLs) are increasingly being applied in the treatment of HTS supported by a rapidly expanding multidisciplinary base of literature. The multidisciplinary authors sought to evaluate existing literature, provide context and identify gaps, and make recommendations for a path forward. A systematic review was conducted to identify literature pertinent literature through September 2019. Retrospective cohort, randomized controlled trials, quasi-randomized controlled trials, observational prospective cohort, or case series with five or more subjects with hypertrophic scars incurred from burns and related trauma were considered. Twenty-two of the 23 evaluated studies documented statistically significant and/or meaningful qualitative improvements in nearly all outcome measures. Adverse events were generally infrequent and minor. Significant heterogeneity was observed among the studies included in this systematic review, precluding metaanalysis of pooled data. There is abundant existing literature on the use of AFLs in the management of HTS but study heterogeneity limits generalizability. Future studies should prioritize standardized protocols including assessments of function and quality of life.

Fractional CO2 laser for the treatment of sclerodermatous cGVHD.

Sclerodermatous graft versus host disease (sclGVHD) is a debilitating complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplant and is characterized by skin thickening and fibrosis that can result in severe contractures. While immunosuppressive therapy remains a mainstay of treatment, the disease course often progresses and, in severe cases, renders patients immobile and wheelchair-bound. Lasers that can target sclerotic lesions to improve tissue pliability and restore range of motion are a promising potential treatment for sclGVHD. Fractional CO2 lasers promote selective collagen remodeling by creating microcolumns of thermal injury that stimulate a wound healing response. Here, we present 2 patients with sclGVHD who underwent treatment with fractional ablative CO2 laser. In this pilot case series demonstrating the novel use of CO2 laser for severe, refractory sclGVHD, two patients were treated with fractional ablative CO2 laser to a focal area of sclerosis. One patient also received clobetasol ointment under occlusion in between treatments. Both patients reported marked subjective improvement in pain and mobility. Objective measurements were recorded for patient 2 who gained roughly 10 degrees of extension and 2 degrees of flexion, as well as a 10% reduction in skin thickness in the treated area. CO2 laser therapy with or without clobetasol ointment under occlusion is a promising treatment modality for sclGVHD.

Laser Treatment of Traumatic Scars and Contractures: 2020 International Consensus Recommendations.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: There is currently intense multidisciplinary interest and a maturing body of literature regarding laser treatments for traumatic scars, but international treatment guidelines and reimbursement schemes have not yet caught up with current knowledge and practice in many centers. The authors intend to highlight the tremendous potential of laser techniques, offer recommendations for safe and efficacious treatment, and promote wider patient access guided by future high-quality research. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: An international panel of 26 dermatologists and plastic and reconstructive surgeons from 13 different countries and a variety of practice backgrounds was self-assembled to develop updated consensus recommendations for the laser treatment of traumatic scars. A three-step modified Delphi method took place between March 2018 and March 2019 consisting of two rounds of emailed questionnaires and supplementary face-to-face meetings. The panel members approved the final manuscript via email correspondence, and the threshold for consensus was at least 80% concurrence among the panel members. RESULTS: The manuscript includes extensive detailed discussion regarding a variety of laser platforms commonly used for traumatic scar management such as vascular lasers and ablative and non-ablative fractional lasers, special considerations such as coding and laser treatments in skin of color, and 25 summary consensus recommendations. CONCLUSIONS: Lasers are a first-line therapy in the management of traumatic scars and contractures, and patients without access to these treatments may not be receiving the best available care after injury. Updated international treatment guidelines and reimbursement schemes, additional high-quality research, and patient access should reflect this status. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Laser scar management: focused and high-intensity medical exchange in Vietnam.

Over the last decade, the treatment of traumatic scars with lasers has emerged as a core component of multidisciplinary management. Military dermatologists have had a fundamental role in this shift by helping to develop new applications for existing technology and promulgate the techniques to reach additional providers and patients. International engagement is a prominent and highly attractive feature of military practice, and military dermatologists routinely participate in disaster response missions and ongoing planned operations. In this article, the author presents a military perspective on the emerging niche of trauma dermatology and outlines his more than 5 years of experience leveraging these skills to lead a multidisciplinary exchange in restorative medicine and burn scar management in Vietnam.

Isotretinoin and Timing of Procedural Interventions: A Systematic Review With Consensus Recommendations.

Importance: The notion that systemic isotretinoin taken within 6 to 12 months of cutaneous surgery contributes to abnormal scarring or delayed wound healing is widely taught and practiced; however, it is based on 3 small case series from the mid-1980s. Objective: To evaluate the body of literature to provide evidence-based recommendations regarding the safety of procedural interventions performed either concurrently with, or immediately following the cessation of systemic isotretinoin therapy. Evidence Review: A panel of national experts in pediatric dermatology, procedural/cosmetic dermatology, plastic surgery, scars, wound healing, acne, and isotretinoin was convened. A systematic PubMed review of English-language articles published from 1982 to 2017 was performed using the following search terms: isotretinoin, 13-cis-retinoic acid, Accutane, retinoids, acitretin, surgery, surgical, laser, ablative laser, nonablative laser, laser hair removal, chemical peel, dermabrasion, wound healing, safety, scarring, hypertrophic scar, and keloid. Evidence was graded, and expert consensus was obtained. Findings: Thirty-two relevant publications reported 1485 procedures. There was insufficient evidence to support delaying manual dermabrasion, superficial chemical peels, cutaneous surgery, laser hair removal, and fractional ablative and nonablative laser procedures for patients currently receiving or having recently completed isotretinoin therapy. Based on the available literature, mechanical dermabrasion and fully ablative laser are not recommended in the setting of systemic isotretinoin treatment. Conclusions and Relevance: Physicians and patients may have an evidence-based discussion regarding the known risk of cutaneous surgical procedures in the setting of systemic isotretinoin therapy. For some patients and some conditions, an informed decision may lead to earlier and potentially more effective interventions.

ASDS Guidelines Task Force: Consensus Recommendations Regarding the Safety of Lasers, Dermabrasion, Chemical Peels, Energy Devices, and Skin Surgery During and After Isotretinoin Use.

BACKGROUND: Currently, the isotretinoin (13-cis-retinoic acid) package insert contains language advising the discontinuation of isotretinoin for 6 months before performing cosmetic procedures, including waxing, dermabrasion, chemical peels, laser procedures, or incisional and excisional cold-steel surgery. It is common practice to follow this standard because of concerns regarding reports of sporadic adverse events and increased risk of scarring. OBJECTIVE: To develop expert consensus regarding the safety of skin procedures, including resurfacing, energy device treatments, and incisional and excisional procedures, in the setting of concurrent or recent isotretinoin use. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery authorized a task force of content experts to review the evidence and provide guidance. First, data were extracted from the literature. This was followed by a clinical question review, a consensus Delphi process, and validation of the results by peer review. RESULTS: The task force concluded that there is insufficient evidence to justify delaying treatment with superficial chemical peels and nonablative lasers, including hair removal lasers and lights, vascular lasers, and nonablative fractional devices for patients currently or recently exposed to isotretinoin. Superficial and focal dermabrasion may also be safe when performed by a well-trained clinician.

Scar Management in the Pediatric and Adolescent Populations.

For most children and adolescents who have developed symptomatic scars, cosmetic concerns are only a portion of the motivation that drives them and their caregivers to obtain treatment. In addition to the potential for cosmetic disfigurement, scars may be associated with a number of physical comorbidities including hypertrichosis, dyshidrosis, tenderness/pain, pruritus, dysesthesias, and functional impairments such as contractures, all of which may be compounded by psychosocial factors. Although a plethora of options for treating scars exists, specific management guidelines for the pediatric and adolescent populations do not, and evidence must be extrapolated from adult studies. New modalities such as the scar team approach, autologous fat transfer, and ablative fractional laser resurfacing suggest a promising future for children who suffer symptomatically from their scars. In this state-of-the-art review, we summarize cutting-edge scar treatment strategies as they relate to the pediatric and adolescent populations.

Healing of chronic wounds with adjunctive ablative fractional laser resurfacing in two pediatric patients.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The development of chronic non-healing wounds is multifactorial and can lead to increased patient morbidity. When traditional wound care methods fail, alternative treatments are needed to prevent chronic ulcer complications. Ablative fractional laser resurfacing (AFR) is an emerging therapy for chronic wounds. We report the successful use of AFR to facilitate the healing of chronic wounds in two pediatric patients. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a case series including two patients with chronic wounds within scars that were treated with a micro-fractionated carbon dioxide (CO2 ) laser in a single pass at a pulse energy of 50 mJ and a treatment density of 5%. One patient had one treatment and the other had two treatments 1 month apart. RESULTS: AFR led to rapid healing of chronic wounds in both pediatric patients. The wounds remained epithelialized after 9 months in one patient and 4 months in the other. There were no complications. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of tolerability and efficacy observed in these cases introduces AFR as a potential promising adjunct to existing treatments for chronic, non-healing wounds in the pediatric population.

Laser tratment of traumatic scars: a military perspective.

Advancements in medical treatment and transport over more than a decade of conflict have resulted in unprecedented survival rates for service members despite catastrophic injuries. Enhanced survival has created an unprecedented need for comprehensive rehabilitation and transition services. Though far from the exclusive domain of military dermatologists, military medicine has had a prominent role in integrating cutaneous procedural techniques into the rehabilitation of traumatically injured patients for a variety of reasons. The introduction of fractional laser technology in the mid-2000's has stimulated a revolution in scar treatment, and is gradually remodeling the fields of procedural dermatology and trauma rehabilitation both inside and outside of the military. This manuscript will provide a brief review of common cutaneous procedures applicable to rehabilitation, with an emphasis on ablative fractional laser resurfacing of scars and contractures.

A review of scar assessment scales.

At our current level of understanding, scars are an unavoidable result of disruption of the integument following trauma and other sources of injury in the postnatal period. Millions of people worldwide suffer from diminished quality of life due to varying degrees of disfigurement, functional impairment, and psychosocial comorbidity. Scars also represent a significant financial burden to the healthcare system at large. Substantial momentum currently exists in scar research associated with innovative techniques and devices devoted to treating scars. In order to properly ascertain and compare responses to various therapies, accurate and reproducible qualitative and quantitative assessments are vital. At least 10 different scar assessment scales and tools have been created to date in an attempt to quantify scar severity. However, a "gold standard" scar scale still does not yet exist. A major limitation of most scar scales is their focus on a relatively narrow group of individual subjective and objective features, while failing to address the overall cosmetic, functional, and psychological sequelae. Herein, we provide a brief review of current scar assessment scales, discuss some of the major advantages and limitations of each, and introduce several characteristics that might be addressed in a new "gold standard" scar scale. The assessment and treatment of scars, particularly large traumatic scars, is frequently a multidisciplinary effort. The creation of an "ideal" scar scale will undoubtedly require input from therapists, surgeons, dermatologists, and other professionals alike.

Multidisciplinary, multimodal approach for a child with a traumatic facial scar.

The treatment of disfiguring and disabling scars remains a field of active study, reinvigorated with recent advances in techniques and technologies. A variety of approaches can be utilized depending on scar characteristics, location, degree of tissue loss, and associated contractures. Just as traumatic scars can be complex and heterogeneous, the corresponding paradigm for treatment must also be flexible and multimodal for optimal improvement. This report describes a 3-year-old girl with a "mixed" (atrophic/hypertrophic), violaceous, contracted facial scar from a dog bite. It was treated with a novel approach utilizing a multidisciplinary pediatric scar team to combine autologous fat grafting, ablative fractional laser resurfacing, pulsed-dye laser, and laser-assisted delivery of a corticosteroid as concurrent, multimodal therapy to optimize the outcome.

Ablative fractional laser resurfacing for abdominal scar contractures in pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: Fundal growth during pregnancy can lead to unremitting discomfort and skin breakdown in patients with extensive abdominal scarring. CASE: A 31-year-old primigravid woman at 30 weeks of gestation presented to the department of dermatology with constant abdominal discomfort, itch, and sleep disturbance secondary to increasing tension associated with existing abdominal scars. An outpatient course of ablative fractional laser resurfacing was initiated in consultation with the dermatology department, resulting in immediate and durable symptom relief and visible abdominal expansion. No complications were observed, and the patient delivered a healthy newborn at term. CONCLUSIONS: Ablative fractional laser resurfacing is a minimally invasive therapeutic alternative for treating pregnant patients with symptoms related to restrictive scarring of the abdomen.