Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser of Recent Surgical Scars in the Head and Neck Region: A Split-Scar, Evaluator-Blinded Study. Issue 1 (January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Buelens, Sarah; Van Hove, Anne-Sophie; Ongenae, Katia; Lapeere, Hilde; Huvenne, Wouter; Vermeersch, Hubert; Verhaeghe, Evelien; Boone, Barbara
• Is Part Of: Dermatologic surgery. Volume 43:Issue 1(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-01
• Subjects: Skin -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Skin -- Diseases -- Surgery -- Periodicals; 617.477
• DOI: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000000963
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1076-0512

Abstract

Abstract : BACKGROUND: Postoperative scarring is a common cause of patient dissatisfaction. Several strategies have been developed to improve its clinical aspects. OBJECTIVE: To assess efficacy and safety of the 10, 600 nm ablative fractional carbon dioxide (CO2 ) laser in the treatment of recent surgical scars in the head and neck region. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A prospective, randomized, single-blind intrapatient controlled study was conducted on 9 postoperative scars in the head and neck region. On half of the scar, 3 treatment sessions were performed. Physician/Patient Global Assessment (PhGA/PGA) and Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scales (POSAS) were used to evaluate treatment efficacy. Safety was evaluated by registration of pain and adverse events. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were noted in terms of PhGA or POSAS (observer). Patient Global Assessment ( p = 0.058) and POSAS (patient) ( p = 0.091) showed a trend toward better improvement of the treated half. Itch score ( p = 0.046) and global end evaluation (patient) ( p = 0.026) demonstrated a statistically significant difference in favor of the treated part. Adverse events were minor, and no long-term side effects were noted. CONCLUSION: The use of CO2 fractional laser is safe and is associated with high patient satisfaction. However, objective measurements could not confirm its efficacy in the treatment of recent surgical scars.