Comparison of Q-switched Nd:YAG laser alone versus its combination with ultrapulse CO laser for the treatment of black tattoo.

BACKGROUND

Q-switched lasers are conventionally used for the treatment of black tattoo. However, they require multiple sittings, and the response may be slow due to competing epidermal pigment in dark skin.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy of Q-switched Nd:YAG laser alone with its combination with ultrapulse CO for the removal of black tattoo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty patients with black tattoo were randomized into two groups viz., group A and group B. Group A was treated with QS Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm) alone, and group B received combination of ablative ultrapulse CO followed by fixed-dose QS Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm), at 6-week interval for a maximum of 6 sittings. After each sitting, 3 independent physicians noted percentage of improvement that was evaluated using visual analogue scale (VAS) and grading system for tattoo ink lightening (TIL).

RESULTS

Combination laser (group B) showed statistically significant improvement in mean VAS score in the last 2 noted visits as compared to 1st session (p < 0.007, p < 0.001) and TIL mean score in last three noted visits as compared to 1st session (p < 0.008, p < 0.020, and p < 0.004). There was no statistically significant difference in the side effect profile of both the groups.

CONCLUSION

For refractory professional tattoos, combination of ultrapulse CO laser and QS Nd:YAG laser is superior to QS Nd:YAG laser alone.