Method for treating pigmentation abnormalities using pulsed laser radiation with an elongated cross section and apparatus for providing same

摘要

A method for treating pigmentation abnormalities in human skin involves the use of a beam of laser radiation having an elongated cross-sectional area. The beam of pulsed laser radiation having an elongated cross-section is produced using a pulsed laser and a delivery system. An elongated area on the skin including a pigmentation abnormality is irradiated with the laser beam. The laser pulse parameters are tailored to the specific type of pigmentation abnormality (e.g., vascular lesions or tattoos) being treated. The beam may have a cross-sectional area characterized by an aspect ratio of greater than two. Also, the beam may have an elliptical cross-sectional area.