Dermatology Lasers May See Broader Use for

InjectionsBy Steven Selchow

A laser frequently employed for facial esthetic treatments by dermatologists, the Er:YAG, may become more widely used for medical injections. A South Korean team of researchers, led by Dr. Jack Yoh, has developed a new injection system using the Er:YAG that allows drugs to be delivered under the skin—a method that could replace hypodermic needles for immunizations and other medical injections.

Introduction

Dr. Yoh described his system in a paper for Optics Letters, a journal of the Optical Society of America. Although previous researchers have used various types of mechanically driven injectors, this laser-driven injector allows a greater degree of control and for better penetration of the drug under the skin.

While more study must be performed before these procedures can be used clinically, this tool of the best dermatologists may one day become available for a wide variety of medical procedures.

About Injectors

The medical director and owner of Rejuv Skin and Laser Clinic in Eagan, Minnesota, Steven A. Selchow, DDS, MD, has two decades of experience in oral and maxillofacial surgical practice.

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