Comparison of Experimental Models for Predicting Laser Tissue Interaction from 3.8-Micron Lasers

摘要

The purpose of this study was to compare and contrast the effects of single 3.8-micron laser pulses in an in-vitro and in-vivo model of human skin and to demonstrate the efficacy of in-vitro laser tissue interaction models. The minimum exposure required to produce specific, gross morphologic changes from a four microsecond, pulsed skin exposure for both models was determined. Histologic samples of the tissues were compared to ascertain the effectiveness of the in-vitro models. Eighteen artificial skin equivalents, (in-vitro model), were exposed and compared to exposures made on five Yorkshire pigs. Representative biopsies were taken for histologic evaluation from various locations immediately, one hour, and 24 hours following exposure. The pattern of epithelial changes seen following in-vivo exposure of pig skin was similar to the changes previously observed in human skin equivalents, indicating that the artificial skin equivalents are representative in-vitro models for this particular combination of laser parameters.