Wart removal without anesthesia using long-pulse 1064-nm Nd:YAG laser.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Warts are benign epithelial proliferations that result from human papillomavirus (HPV) infection occurring on the skin and mucosa. Patients express a significant reduction in quality of life due to this cosmetic nuisance, as well as functional problems and physical discomfort. Newer methods of wart removal include different energy-based devices, mostly lasers. Nonablative lasers such as NdYAG have a higher success rate and are usually used with topical or infiltrative anesthesia. The procedure may be safer without anesthesia but still tolerable with an appropriate cooling and technique. AIMS: The purpose of this study is to report on our experience over 3 years since the approach without anesthesia has been utilized. PATIENTS/METHODS: A retrospective chart review analysis of all 85 patients who underwent 1064 nm NdYAG wart removal without anesthesia between November 2016 and August 2019 was conducted. One of the main outcome measures was determining the number of sessions required in order to get full clearance. RESULTS: The mean number of sessions was 2.2 (range 1-7). The mean VAS pain score during the procedure was 6 (range 2-10), and side effects were negligible. CONCLUSION: Long-pulse 1064-nm NdYAG laser without any chemical anesthesia is safe and effective for the treatment of warts.