TRASER: An innovative device for the treatment of nasal telangiectasias

Background: Destruction of blood vessels by selective photothermolysis has been successfully achieved using a number of different laser and light systems, none of which provide significant independent variation in parameters such as wavelength. Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel configurable device in the treatment of nasal telangiectasias. Methods: Fifteen subjects aged 42–73 with Fitzpatrick skin types I and II were treated for nasal telangiectasias of various sizes. Efficacy was measured by blinded analysis of pre and post images and self-assessment by the subjects. The primary endpoint was a 2-point improvement of telangiectasia based on a 5-point Telangiectasia Scale comparing the pre-treatment photograph to the post-treatment photograph at 30 days post final treatment by an independent reviewer. Treatment completion was defined as >75% vessel clearance. The TRASER (Total Reflection Amplification of Spontaneous Emission Radiation) was configured to produce a narrow spectral output, peaking at 541 ± 5 nm, with 20–40 millisecond pulses over an energy density range of 15–40 J/cm² utilizing a 12 mm spot size were delivered with contact sapphire cooling tip at approximately 10°C. Results: All 13 subjects (100%) in the efficacy population achieved procedure success at the end of the final treatment, that is a 2-point improvement of telangiectasis on the telangiectasia scale (pre- vs. post-treatment). A single treatment was effective in >75% of patients with at least a 75% reduction in blood vessels. Larger vessels responded well to longer pulse durations (40 milliseconds) while smaller vessels responded best to shorter pulse durations (25 milliseconds). No serious adverse events (SAEs) were recorded. Limitation: Short-term (1 month) follow up. Conclusion: The TRASER device is a safe and effective option for treatment of nasal telangiectasias with all subjects meeting primary endpoint success at the end of treatment and the majority of subjects demonstrating clearance after only one treatment. These treatments were well tolerated and provided high patient satisfaction. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:625–631, 2017.