Treatment of Surgical Scars Using the Pulsed Dye Laser

Treatment of Surgical Scars With the 595nm Pulsed Dye Laser Using Purpuric and Nonpurpuric Parameters: A Comparative Study

The purpose of this study is to determine whether treatment of fresh surgical scars with a pulsed dye laser using purpura-inducing settings will improve clinical appearance better than one using non-purpura-inducing settings or no treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients requiring Mohs micrographic surgery or excisions for skin cancer or atypical nevi, with an expected post-excision scar of 4.5cm in length or more.
• Willing to participate.
• Able to give informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Location of excision or Mohs surgery on the genitals, hands, or feet.
• Fitzpatrick skin type V or VI.
• Prior history of known light sensitivity.