Laser resurfacing using CO₂ laser with a computerized scanning system is useful for the preparation of recipient site of vitiligo in autologous epidermal grafting

Abstract

Vitiligo is an acquired disorder characterized by amelanotic macules. The efficacy of conservative therapy such as topical corticosteroids and PUVA is limited for many cases of vitiligo. Especially for segmental vitiligo, autologous epidermal grafting using the tops of suction blisters is used. We succesfully treated 15 patients of segmental vitiligo with this epidermal grafting technique with laser resurfacing using CO₂ laser (SurgiTouch: Lumenis Laser 30C^®) for the preparation of recipient site of vitiligo. CO₂ laser with computed scanning system is suited for treating vitiligous lesion prior to grafting because it can provide rapid, predictable de-epithelialization.