Comparison of the efficacy and adverse effects of long pulsed 1064 nm Nd: YAG laser and sclerotherapy in the treatment of pyogenic granuloma in children: a retrospective study

Abstract

Pyogenic granuloma (PG) is benign vascular lesions of the skin and mucous membranes that often involve the skin and mucous membranes, which often trouble patients due to its frequent bleeding. The traditional treatment is surgical removal, but its bleeding, pain, and trauma have led doctors to look for more minimally invasive methods. Between June 1, 2022 to March 1, 2024, we retrospectively analyzed 72 children with PG who were seen and treated in our department for long pulsed 1064 nm Nd: YAG laser (Gentle Nd: YAG laser) and sclerotherapy, respectively. The efficacy of the two treatments, pain scores, duration of surgery, and adverse events were assessed. The results showed no significant difference between the two groups in the efficacy of first treatment and the efficacy of secondary treatment. Although the procedure time was shorter in Gentle Nd: YAG laser group than in sclerotherapy group, the pain was more pronounced and the incidence of scarring was higher. No significant recurrence was detected in either group during the 6-month follow-up period. Gentle Nd: YAG laser and sclerotherapy for PG are sensitive, less invasive, and safe treatments. Sclerotherapy may be more acceptable to patients than Gentle Nd: YAG laser therapy because it is less painful and scarring is rare.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-025-85401-8.