Animal Study of Skin Resurfacing Using the Ultrapulse Carbon Dioxide Laser

The study investigated the effects of ultrapulse carbon dioxide laser ablation on rabbit skin, focusing on both macroscopic and microscopic changes over a 1-month period. The laser was set to deliver 250 mJ of energy per pulse with a 2 W average power, using a 3-mm spot size. The results showed precise and bloodless removal of skin without char formation. Remarkably, skin re-epithelialization occurred without scarring, and hair growth was fully restored within 3 weeks. Microscopic analysis revealed a layer of thermal necrosis measuring 70 ± 10 µm, with significant fibroblastic reactions and capillary congestion in the papillary dermis. By the end of 4 weeks, the epidermal layer appeared normal, and the dermal collagen showed a compact configuration with increased cellularity. These findings suggested that the ultrapulse laser could selectively damage the epidermis and papillary dermis, achieving effective wound healing within 1 month.