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XTRAC FAQ’s


The following are some answers to frequent questions about the XTRAC excimer laser system for the treatment of psoriasis:

Who should consider XTRAC?

If you have mild to moderate psoriasis, and you’re unhappy with your current method of treatment, you should consider treatment with the XTRAC excimer laser system. You may have tried topical medications with disappointing results. You may have experienced remission with numerous sessions of conventional phototherapy, but don’t want to spend the time necessary to manage your skin condition. You’ll probably get relief faster with XTRAC.

How does XTRAC work?

Using a carefully focused beam of laser light delivered through a sophisticated fiber-optic delivery system, the XTRAC system is designed to clear unsightly psoriatic skin plaques quickly and effectively. Because it concentrates light on active lesions, XTRAC allows your doctor to deliver the high-exposure doses necessary for rapid clearing without risk of damage to healthy skin.

On the first visit, your physician may test your skin to determine your optimum dosage level. Then the XTRAC hand-piece is moved over the affected area, applying laser light at your determined dose. Depending on the area to be treated this only typically takes a few minutes.

How quickly will I see results?

Of course, results will vary. However, individuals with mild to moderate psoriasis can often obtain clearance generally in 10 or less brief treatment sessions. You may experience relief of symptoms beginning after one or two treatments.

Is there any pain?

Most patients feel no pain or discomfort during the short XTRAC treatment sessions. Sometimes after some treatment sessions, you may experience a sun burn type response. While uncomfortable, this is often a good indicator that a helpful dose of laser energy was delivered. No anesthesia is necessary.

Not only is the XTRAC treatment free of pain, it has few of the drawbacks often associated with other psoriasis treatments, such as premature skin aging, skin thinning or resistance to medication. And the XTRAC system can be used successfully on hard-to-treat areas of the body such as elbows and knees.

How long will clearing last?

Each case is unique, but psoriasis sufferers who have experienced XTRAC treatment have found that relief can last for extended periods of time. Remissions are expected to last at least as long as with conventional phototherapy, which is typically several months, but you will probably need fewer treatments per year to remain free of symptoms.

Is this treatment covered by health insurance?

The XTRAC excimer laser is broadly reimbursed for mild to moderate plaque psoriasis and vitiligo by most major insurance companies. Specific CPT codes (96920, 96921, 96922; © American Medical Association) apply for laser treatment for psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.

For additional information on insurance reimbursement, please contact your health insurance company or our Reimbursement Help Line.

How do I find the nearest doctor?

If you want to experience relief from the symptoms of psoriasis or vitiligo, please visit our Locate a Physician page and we will inform you of the closest XTRAC laser physicians to your home.