Effect of defocused CO2 laser on equine tissue perfusion.

This research article investigates the impact of defocused CO2 laser treatment on blood flow and temperature in horse tissues. The findings show that such treatment significantly increases skin perfusion and temperature.

Overview of the Research

• The study aimed to elucidate the effects of defocused CO2 laser treatment on equine tissue perfusion – the passage of fluid through the circulatory system or lymphatic system to an organ or a tissue. The researchers sought to link temperature changes in the skin and underlying muscle of horses which were anaesthetized, with changes in blood perfusion. It also studied the impact on clipped versus unclipped haircoats.
• The research involved eight horses and two controls that received CO2 laser treatment on a clipped and unclipped area of their hamstring muscles. These treatments were administered in a randomized order. The power density used was 91 J/cm2.

Key Findings

• The study found a significant increase in clipped skin perfusion and temperature – an average increase of 146.3 perfusion units (334% increase) and a temperature increase of 5.5 degrees Celsius.
• The research also noted significant increases in the perfusion and temperature of unclipped skin. Perfusion increased by 80.6 units (264% increase) and temperature by 4.8 degrees Celsius.
• No observable changes were identified in muscle perfusion or temperature.

Conclusions

• The study concluded that treatment with a defocused CO2 laser causes a significant increase in skin perfusion in horses. This increase in skin perfusion was correlated with an increase in skin temperature.
• The implications of the study suggest that CO2 laser treatment could potentially be used as a therapeutic intervention for equine injuries. However, the specific mechanisms through which the CO2 laser affects tissue regeneration and injury recovery still need further investigation.