Scalp reduction surgery with the carbon dioxide laser

When used in the focused cutting mode, the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser can permit virtually bloodless scalp reduction surgery as a function of its remarkable hemostatic properties. This instrument speeds the operating time and allows the surgeon to close the wound with confidence that postoperative bleeding is unlikely to compromise the results. The additional potential benefits of decreased swelling and pain due to sealing of lymphatics and nerve endings are more difficult to quantify. It appears that the CO2 laser offers many benefits in scalp reduction surgery and is a useful modification of the standard technique.