Cooling Devices in Laser Therapy

Abstract

Summary The growing experience with laser devices, whose wave length is partially absorbed in melanin, as well as with longer pulse lengths and higher fluences has resulted in the necessity of concurrent epidermal cooling. Based on own experience as well as the current literature our review article describes every cooling device available, i.e. ice cubes, gel pads, spray cooling with nitrogen or tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a), sapphire-glass window, “cold tip”, and cold air. The cooling systems are compared with regard to cooling method, efficacy, patient's comfort, user friendliness, and cost. In summary, a suitable cooling device is required for each indication and each individual laser.