Temperature Monitoring during Laser-Assisted Liposculpture in Males

Abstract

Skin and subdermal temperatures were compared before and after laser-assisted liposculpture treatment in males. Subdermal temperatures were recorded using an autoclavable temperature probe specifically developed for internal temperature monitoring directly at the point of laser energy output. There were 60 temperature recordings made in 15 treatment areas. These included before and after readings of skin and subdermal temperatures in each treatment area. The endpoint of tissue resistance and ease of cannula insertion was used as a guide for laser energy application in this study rather than a specific temperature endpoint. The application of laser energy to the subdermal tissues resulted in temperature elevation of both the skin and subdermal regions. Variable temperature elevations occurred in each region with differences that were not predictable. Maximum temperature increases recorded at the skin surface and in the subdermal region were 11.8°C. and 15.0°C, respectively. No complications were encountered. Statistical analysis using standard paired tests showed the temperature differences to be significant.