Intense pulsed light source for the treatment of dye laser resistant port wine stains

IPL treatments were performed on several subjects with port wine stains that were previously resistant to multiple PDL treatments. Clearance of varying degree occurred in the majority of patients.

PubMed Reference: Bjerring P, et al. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2003 Apr;5:7-13.

Study Details: 

  • 15 subjects (9 males, 6 females; mean age 31.2±11.5 years; skin types I-II) with PWS on the face, neck, arm or trunk that were previously found to be resistant to multiple (up to 15) PDL treatments
  • 4 IPL treatments at 2-month intervals with 555-950 nm (VL applicator): spot size of 10x48 mm, fluence 13-22 J/cm2 to reach purpura level, pulse duration 8-30 ms (based on PWS color)
  • Blinded evaluation of digital photography by 1 dermatologist, based on a 5-point improvement scale (0-24%, 25-49%, 50-74%, 75-100%)

Study Results: 

  • 44.2%±39.2% mean clearance for all subjects by blinded evaluation
  • 7 patients (46.7%) responded to treatment (>25% clearance)
  • 85.7% of responders had >75% clearance (remaining 14.3% of subjects had between 50-74%clearance)
  • All non-responders (<25% clearance) had PWS located in the central face
  • Immediate side effects included edema lasting 2 hours after treatment up to 5 days and crusting up to 10 days
  • Subjects should be advised that IPL treatment on hair-bearing skin may result in permanent hair reduction