Importance of temperature control during the subdermal endolaser technique utilization

Introduction: Endolaser is a technique that uses 1470 nm and 980 nm laser beams to reduce subcutaneous fat and tone the skin, in addition to promoting additional aesthetic effects. It can be performed using an optical fiber directly inserted into the superficial subcutaneous tissue or through a cannula to facilitate its manipulation in the subcutaneous tissue. Precise temperature control during the procedure may be performed to ensure therapeutic efficacy and avoid thermal injuries. Objective: This study aimed to describe the importance of temperature control during the use of the endolaser subdermal laser in the treatment of aesthetic conditions, in order to optimize the technique, assure good results and avoid thermal injuries during and after the procedure. Materials and methods: This study is characterized by exploratory research, presented through a narrative review, to highlight the need and/or importance of rigorous control of skin temperature during the endolaser technique applied in the treatment of aesthetic dysfunctions. The review explored scientific articles published and available in the following databases: MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online), PubMed (National Library of Medicine), SCIELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online) and LILACS (Literatura da América Latina e Caribe in Health Sciences). Furthermore, it was added to this study a survey of some cases of thermal injuries identified after the use of the endolaser technique that occurred in Brazil in a multicentric manner, in order to describe the authors' experience in approaching this type of adversity which occurred due to the lack of suitable means to control the temperature as long as the procedure takes place. Results: It was found that controlling skin temperature during the subdermal laser technique has broad support in the literature, both in surgical and outpatient (non-invasive) procedures. Despite this, there are reports of authors who perform the endolaser technique with lower doses, giving up adequate instruments for monitoring skin temperature. We also verified that adequate control of skin temperature during the use of the endolaser is crucial to avoid burn injuries. The safe temperature identified on the skin during the procedure, considered safe and effective, is around 40 to 42ºC. Conclusion: We conclude, therefore, that controlling skin temperature during the endolaser technique, using appropriate instruments is necessary so that the professional might be sure of the effects arising from the technique (heating or not of the skin), and beyond, this can prevent burn injuries.