Lattice of optical islets: a novel treatment modality in photomedicine

Abstract

A majority of photothermal applications of laser and non-laser light sources in medicine (in particular, in dermatology) are based on the paradigm of (extended) selective photothermolysis. However, realization of this principle in its strict form may not always be possible and/or practical. Spatial (or geometric) selectivity (as opposed to wavelength and temporal selectivity) can provide an alternative approach delivering effective and safe treatment techniques. A method of creating a lattice of localized areas of light–tissue interaction (optical islets) is an example of this 'spatially confined' approach. The lattice of optical islets can be formed using a variety of energy sources and delivery optics, including application of lenslet arrays, phase masks and matrices of exogenous chromophores. Using a state-of-the-art theory of optical and thermal light–tissue interactions and a comprehensive computer model of skin, we have conducted a theoretical and numerical analysis of the process of formation of such a lattice in human tissue. Effects of the wavelength, beam geometry, pulsewidth and physical properties of tissues have been considered. Conditions for obtaining optical, thermal and damage islet lattices in the human skin without inducing adverse side effects (e.g. bulk damage) have been established.