Keloids treated with postoperative Iridium 192* brachytherapy: a retrospective study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Radiation Oncology
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Post-excisional brachytherapy using Iridium-192 is a treatment for keloid scars (KS).
• Established indications and treatment parameters for this therapy lack consensus.
• This study evaluates a specific clinical application and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of post-excisional brachytherapy in managing keloid scars.
• To evaluate patient satisfaction following this treatment modality.
• To identify factors influencing treatment outcomes and recurrence.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of patients with histologically proven KS treated between 1990 and 2005.
• Data collected on clinical presentation, brachytherapy parameters, and follow-up outcomes.
• Inclusion criteria focused on patients with available clinical data and treatment details.

Main Results:

• Eighty-seven patients (138 KS) were initially treated; 82 KS (46 patients) met inclusion criteria.
• Brachytherapy commenced within 7 hours post-surgery, with an average dose of 17.9 Gy at 5 mm.
• Recurrence observed in 23.6% of cases; significant reduction in itching (79%) and pain (87.5%).
• Higher recurrence risk noted in patients with phototypes 5 and 6.

Conclusions:

• Post-excisional brachytherapy demonstrates efficacy in keloid scar prevention and functional symptom relief.
• The treatment may result in unaesthetic outcomes, necessitating patient counseling.
• A minimum two-year follow-up is recommended to fully assess treatment results.