Complications and Legal Considerations of Laser, Light, and Energy-Based Treatments

Summary and Key Features

• Various energy-based devices in dermatology, their complications, and means to prevent them.

• Legal and professional considerations including what constitutes an informed consent and the value of such consent when legal action is taken.

• Data on medical professional liability against dermatologists.

• Act of negligence and the legal consequences arising from that.

Introduction

The applications of energy-based devices have been expanding at steadily increasing rates, with a widening spectrum of indications and patient population. Such devices include lasers which target a wide array of chromophores in the skin depending on the wavelength, radiofrequency (RF) and light-emitting devices, as well as body contouring modalities including cryolipolysis and electromagnetic energy for muscle stimulation. Over the past 3 decades, our knowledge of potential complications related to these devices has also developed, leading to safer technologies with safeguard measures that limit side effects and complications. Unfortunately, adverse events are a reality of the medical profession despite our best efforts. Here, we discuss some complications associated with energy-based devices and outline the legal framework of malpractice claims and lawsuits.