Confocal microscopy to guide laser ablation of basal cell carcinoma: a preliminary feasibility study

摘要

Laser ablation may be a promising method for removal of skin lesions, with the potential for better cosmetic outcomes and reduced scarring and infection. An obstacle to implementing laser ablation is that the treatment leaves no tissue for histopathological analysis. Pre-operative and intra-operative mapping of BCCs using confocal microscopy may guide the ablation of the tumor until all tumor is removed. We demonstrate preliminary feasibility of confocal microscopy to guide laser ablation of BCCs in freshly excised tissue from Mohs surgery. A 2940 run Er:YAG laser provides efficient ablation of tumor with reduced thermal damage to the surrounding tissue.