Practice patterns regarding combination treatments and laser and energy based devices: A survey of American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Members Journal Article


Authors: Dempsey, A.; Watchmaker, J.; Hibler, B. P.; Rossi, A.
Article Title: Practice patterns regarding combination treatments and laser and energy based devices: A survey of American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery Members
Abstract: Objective: The use of laser and energy-based devices (LEBD) has grown exponentially in recent years, and variations in common practices exist. Our study sought to evaluate the current practice paradigms of leaders in the field of LEBD with regard to antimicrobial prophylaxis, adjuvant topical treatments, use of laser procedures in pregnancy, and combination of procedures. Methods: Anonymous surveys were distributed to leading dermatologists in American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery (ASLMS) via email. Results: Surveys were distributed to 65 ASLMS members; 37 submitted responses. Routine antiviral prophylaxis is used by 76% for fractional ablative procedures of the face, but only 27% for fractional non-ablative procedures. Routine antifungal prophylaxis was used by a minority (16%) for ablative procedures, whereas antibacterial prophylaxis was used by 68%, with varying antibiotics. Wide variations exist in skin preparation and topicals used post-laser treatment. Most respondents feel comfortable combining same-day LEBD and botulinum toxin injections, specifically vascular or Q-switched/picosecond lasers. Most respondents avoid performing LEBD during pregnancy. Conclusions: Expert consensus in a rapidly growing field sheds light on common, reliable practices. However, even at the expert level, variations exist. Further high-quality research is needed to standardize and update guidelines. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Keywords: antibiotic agent; case report; united states; clinical practice; sunscreen; consensus; antifungal agent; steroid; questionnaire; prophylaxis; alcohol; medical society; pregnancy; antivirus agent; ascorbic acid; hyaluronic acid; water; chlorhexidine; laser surgery; drug therapy; retinol; doxycycline; radiofrequency ablation; cotrimoxazole; antibiotic prophylaxis; sodium chloride; fluconazole; retinoid; topical treatment; drug use; ultrasound therapy; low level laser therapy; laser therapy; dermatologist; hydroquinone; laser; e-mail; botulinum toxin; petrolatum; cefalexin; procedures; tranexamic acid; dicloxacillin; mupirocin; lasers, solid-state; cefadroxil; human; article; soap; surveys and questionnaires; postinflammatory hyperpigmentation; solid state laser; ablative laser; energy-based devices; non-ablative; postprocedure; hypochlorous acid; gas laser; lasers, gas
Journal Title: Lasers in Surgery and Medicine
Volume: 55
Issue: 1
ISSN: 0196-8092
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons  
Date Published: 2023-01-01
Start Page: 16
End Page: 21
Language: English
DOI: 10.1002/lsm.23632
PUBMED: 36655516
PROVIDER: scopus
DOI/URL:
Notes: Article -- Export Date: 1 March 2023 -- Source: Scopus
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  1. Anthony Rossi
    233 Rossi