Long-term efficacy of carbon dioxide laser resurfacing for facial actinic keratosis

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy and long-term effectiveness of carbon dioxide laser resurfacing in the treatment of patients with facial actinic keratosis. Patients and Methods: A retrospective chart analysis was conducted of 31 patients who underwent full face carbon dioxide laser resurfacing for facial actinic keratosis from July 1998 to November 2002. Results: Of 31 patients, 18 (58%) were free of lesions at their longest visit. The average actinic keratosis free period, excluding 2 deceased patients, was 27.4 months. Conclusion: Carbon dioxide laser resurfacing is an effective tool in the management of patients with facial actinic keratosis. (c) 2007 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.