that utilizes an oxygen mist containing ingredients that accelerate re-epithelization and wound healing. A modification of this system utilizing a unique antimicrobial wound cleanser is described. The pros and cons of this system are discussed and contrasted to other currently available wound healing systems.

Introduction: Considerable debates exists over the post-laser resurfacing regimen of choice with strong proponents of both open and closed systems, and most recently support for a combination regimen1. A number of excellent post-op laser resurfacing dressings, including Flexan®, Vilgilon®, and Silon-TSR® are utilized by plastic and dermatologic surgeons after CO2 laser resurfacing.

The use of closed dressing systems, such as Silon-TSR®, have recently been shown to significantly reduce post-op discomfort, accelerate wound healing and reduce the degree of post-op erythema possibly as a  result of reduction in wound inflammatory infiltrate2. A variety of wound healing ointments such as Aquaphor Healing™ Ointment, Catrix®, Elta®, Resurfix®, ect. are among few of the many available for post-laser resurfacing.

The choice of these ointments is often based on the individual surgeons personal preference since no carefully controlled comparative clinical studies exist. Use of the Erbium:YAG laser results primarily in an ablative wound rather than a thermal wound3 resulting in more rapid healing time and lower incidence of post-op infections. More recently, however, higher fluences4,5,6, scanned and variable pulse width Erbium:YAG lasers7 have broadened the spectrum of Erbium:YAG laser induced wounds of the skin. Although simple open methods were adequate for more superficial, lower fluence Erbium:YAG wounding of the skin, aggressive use of Erbium:YAG lasers that result in deeper, exudative wounds necessitate more sophisticated and vigilant post-op wound management.