Cynosure (Westford, MA) has gained FDA clearance for the PicoSure system to treat acne scars. The PicoSure system uses short bursts of laser energy to photomechanically breakdown scars into smaller particles that are eliminated by the body, without adverse impact to the skin. Unlike competitive technologies that use nanosecond lasers, the picosecond laser emitted by PicoSure does not rely on delivering thermal energy to the tissue to heal scars. PicoSure can also be used for tattoo removal, where the same photomechanical effect is used to break down tattoo ink into smaller particles. The pressure waves needed for breaking down scars and tattoos can be amplified using the Boost technology, allowing for 70% increase in pressure waves and shortening of pulse width to 550 picoseconds. Further, only half the fluence (laser flux) is required due to the short pulse width, compared to nanosecond lasers.
In clinical studies, it was reported that 77% of patients who were treated with PicoSure had more than 50% improvement in scar treatment as rated by physicians. PicoSure also had a patient satisfaction rating of 76% at the one month follow up and an 86% satisfaction rating at the three month follow up.
The PicoSure system comes with an accessory FOCUS lens that can be used to concentrate the picosecond laser pulses to precise depths for improved skin treatment.
Press release: Cynosure® Announces PicoSure® Is FDA-Cleared To Treat Acne Scars
Product page: PicoSure…