Removal of Infantile hemangiomas
Infantile hemangiomas are a common type of birth defects of vascular origin. In most cases they are not painful and dangerous, and the reason for their occurrence is unknown. They consist of clusters of small blood vessels that occur as early as at birth or develop within a few weeks thereafter. They can develop in all parts of the body, but most often occur on the face, scalp, back or chest.
The majority of hemangiomas do not cause complications, do not endanger the health of the child, and usually do not need special treatment as they undergo reverse development until the end of the 7th year.
In cases of rapid growth, risk of bleeding, ulceration, aesthetic deformities, active oral medication or laser treatments may be applied.
What is the laser treatment of Infantile hemangiomas LIKE?
The laser treatment of infantile hemangiomas is carried out with the Nd: YAG laser of the leading American company for medical laser systems Cutera.
The laser removal of infantile hemangiomas consists of a light pulse which energy is absorbed by the blood in the enlarged capillaries. Laser energy converts to heat, causing lasting contraction and gradual destruction of enlarged vessels.
Which patients are Suitable for the treatment?
Laser therapy for infantile hemangiomas is applied depending on their location and size, as well as the age of the child.
What does the patient feel during the process?
The patient senses stinging or pinching when the impulse is fired through the nozzle. Immediately before the treatment, an analgesic cream is applied.
For the complete comfort of our patients, during the manipulations, a professional Zimmer 6 cryosystem is used for analgesia using a cold air jet.
What happens right after the treatment?
Immediately after the treatment, redness and swelling of the treated area occur within 5 to 7 days.
It is advisable to apply a sunscreen with a high factor on the treated area if it is exposed to direct sunlight.
How many treatments are necessary?
The number of treatments depends on the size and location of infantile hemangioma. Usually 3-4 treatments are required, at a 1-2 month interval.
Which is the most suitable time for the treatment?
Laser therapy takes place during the seasons in which the affected area is not exposed to direct sunlight. Such are autumn, winter and spring.
What are the contraindications to the treatment?
There are conditions in which the treatment is strictly contraindicated due to the high risk of unpredictable side effects:
• presence of open wounds
• presence of tan from recent exposure to sun
• patients who are going to have sun exposure within 30 days of the last treatment
• active herpes and other skin infections in the area of the treated area