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Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser of Recent Surgical Scars in the Head and Neck Region: A Split-Scar, Evaluator-Blinded
Sarah Buelens1, Anne-Sophie Van Hove, Katia Ongenae
1*Faculty of Medicine, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium; †Department of Dermatology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium; ‡Department of Head, Neck and Maxillo-Facial Surgery, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
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.
