A Split-face Study of Novel Robotic Prototype vs Human Operator in Skin Rejuvenation Using Q-switched Nd:Yag Laser: Accuracy, Efficacy and Safety
This addresses the need for more reliable and accurate laser treatments in dermatology, though it is incremental as it builds on emerging robotic technologies.
The study compared a novel robotic prototype to a human operator for skin rejuvenation using a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser, finding that the robot achieved a higher laser coverage rate (60.2% vs. 43.6%) with no significant differences in efficacy or safety.
Background: Robotic technologies involved in skin laser are emerging. Objective: To compare the accuracy, efficacy and safety of novel robotic prototype with human operator in laser operation performance for skin photo-rejuvenation. Methods: Seventeen subjects were enrolled in a prospective, comparative split-face trial. Q-switch 1064nm laser conducted by the robotic prototype was provided on the right side of the face and that by the professional practitioner on the left. Each subject underwent a single time, one-pass, non-overlapped treatment on an equal size area of the forehead and cheek. Objective assessments included: treatment duration, laser irradiation shots, laser coverage percentage, VISIA parameters, skin temperature and the VAS pain scale. Results: Average time taken by robotic manipulator was longer than human operator; the average number of irradiation shots of both sides had no significant differences. Laser coverage rate of robotic manipulator (60.2 +-15.1%) was greater than that of human operator (43.6 +-12.9%). The VISIA parameters showed no significant differences between robotic manipulator and human operator. No short or long-term side effects were observed with maximum VAS score of 1 point. Limitations: Only one section of laser treatment was performed. Conclusion: Laser operation by novel robotic prototype is more reliable, stable and accurate than human operation.