Rationale for automatic scanners in laser treatment of port wine stains

Laser therapy of port wine stains (PWS) is well established. However, the application of lasers to PWS treatment over the last decade has resulted in the use of many laser systems. The goal of this study is to describe the different laser parameters, treatment techniques, and delivery systems. Two methods, coagulation and microvaporization, are used to destroy the abnormal blood vessels. The coagulation method results in excellent treatment, but it requires careful control of laser parameters during the treatment process. Scanning devices can be utilized for this purpose. The microvaporization method, obtained with a pulsed dye laser, is restricted to PWS composed of small vessels since it is difficult to obtain a pulse longer than 450 microseconds. In addition, numerous retreatments are needed with the pulsed dye method. The initial assessment of the patient should contribute to an improvement in the choice of laser parameters and the outcome of treatment. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.