[Skin approximation using Nd: YAG laser in head and neck surgery]

Laser is useful for surgery to cut, coagulate, vaporize and weld the tissue. Recently, low power laser was utilized for the treatment of ulcer, pain and vascular anastomosis. We applied low power Nd: YAG laser irradiation for skin approximation. An experimental study was carried out by using the Nd: YAG laser in approximating the surgically cut skin wound of guinea pigs. Healing of the wound was observed on post operative days of 3, 7 and 21, respectively. Laser approximation for the incised skin showed less scaring and faster healing than conventional suture technique. This laser technique will be beneficial as one of the new procedures of skin suture in clinical practice. The results were discussed from either technical or cosmetic standpoint.