Lasers use in dermatology practice in the evolving COVID-19 scenario: Recommendations by SIG lasers (IADVL academy)
safety, lasers, Pandemic, personal protective equipment, COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has taken the entire world by storm. Almost all dermatology laser procedures are considered non-essential and there is a consensus that they should be deferred till the threat of the COVID-19 is well and truly over. The article presents recommendations for the use of lasers and energy based devices in a safe manner during and in the immediate aftermath of COVID-19 pandemic. Plume generating procedures need full personal protective equipment to be used. Special precautions are required for specific laser and energy based procedures. A robust disinfection strategy based on preventing fomite borne COVID-19 transmission in the laser operating room is essential.
Salim Thurakkal, Abhishek De, Swapnil Shah, Sunil Trivedi, David Pudukadan, Sachin Dhawan, Pradeep Kumari, Anuj Pall, Ekta Romi, K Jyothy, M D Selvam, Sahil Mrigpuri