An assessment of the safety and efficacy of a fractional CO2 laser system for the treatment of vulvovaginal atrophy. Issue 10 (October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sokol, Eric R.; Karram, Mickey M.
• Is Part Of: Menopause. Volume 23:Issue 10(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-10
• Subjects: Dyspareunia -- Fractional CO2 laser -- Genitourinary syndrome of menopause -- Menopause -- Vaginal dryness -- Vulvovaginal atrophy; Menopause -- Periodicals; 618.175005
• DOI: 10.1097/GME.0000000000000700
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1072-3714

Abstract

Abstract: Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a novel fractional CO2 laser for the treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Methods: Women presenting with GSM and meeting study criteria were enrolled. Examinations at baseline and follow-up (3 mo after final treatment) evaluated dilator tolerance and vaginal pH. Visual analog scales were used to assess pain, vaginal burning, vaginal itching, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, and dysuria; Vaginal Health Index scores were completed before each treatment and at follow-up; Female Sexual Function Index and Short Form 12 questionnaires were also completed. Participant satisfaction was measured on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = very dissatisfied, 5 = very satisfied). Women received three laser treatments, 6 weeks apart. Results: Thirty women participated (mean age 58.6 ± 8.8 y). None withdrew or were discontinued due to an adverse event; three were lost to follow-up. Average improvement in visual analog scale scoring was 1.7 ± 3.2 for pain, 1.4 ± 2.9 for burning, 1.4 ± 1.9 for itching, 6.1 ± 2.7 for dryness, 5.1 ± 3.0 for dyspareunia, and 1.0 ± 2.4 for dysuria; improvement in average Vaginal Health Index and Female Sexual Function Index scores were statistically significant ( P < 0.001). Twenty-five of 30 participants (83%) showed increase in comfortable dilator size at 3-month follow up. Before the second and third treatments, 86.6% (26 of 30) of women reported they were better or much better than at the previous treatment; 26 of 27 women (96%) were reportedly satisfied or extremely satisfied at follow-up. Conclusions: In this sample, the data suggest that the fractional CO2 laser is effective and safe for treatment of the symptoms associated with GSM.