IGNITION POTENTIAL OF THE 585-NM PULSED-DYE LASER - REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE AND SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS

BACKGROUND. The 585-nm pulsed-dye laser is the treatment of choice for many port-wine stains. The risk of accidental flash fires occurring w ith the pulsed-dye laser is considered minimal. Recently, however, the re have been several reports of unwanted ignitions. These cases all sh are two features: 1) oxygen delivery by face mask, and 2) the ignition of a hair-bearing surface. OBJECTIVE. We report a case of a laser-ind uced fire that occurred on a non-hair-bearing surface in a patient who was receiving oxygen by nasal cannula. The mechanisms, risk factors, and guidelines for the prevention of pulsed-dye laser-induced fires ar e presented. METHODS. We reviewed the literature regarding the safety of pulsed-dye laser use. RESULTS. Pulsed-dye laser-induced fives can o ccur on non-hair-bearing regions and in patients receiving oxygen by n asal cannula. CONCLUSION. Precautions should be taken to prevent pulse d-dye laser fires regardless of treated region or method of oxygen del ivery.