193 nm excimer laser selective ablation of in vivo guinea pig epidermis

We have previously shown that 193 nm excimer laser irradiation cleanly and effectively ablates avascular tissue with minimal thermal damage to surrounding adjacent structures. In this study, the 193 nm excimer laser is used to remove guinea pig epidermis in vivo. The epidermis can be totally ablated with thermal damage extending only superficially into the dermis. Reepitheliazation of the ablated area takes place in 1 week or less. This technique may be applicable to the removal of benign epidermal lesions.