Excision-cryosurgery of auricular keloids associated with active follow-up: A retrospective study of 61 patients

Auricular keloids can lead to significant aesthetic and functional impairments. Cryosurgery has been described as an adjuvant treatment following excision.

We detail this procedure combined with active follow-up, its impact on outcomes, and factors potentially associated with recurrence.

This retrospective single-centre study encompassed all patients treated with excision-cryosurgery (ExCS) for auricular keloids from September 2010-March 2021, with outcome data after 2 years. The standardized procedure involved excision followed by immediate freezing. Thinning >80% was considered complete remission (CR).

Of the 87 patients treated during the period, 61 were included with a total of 79 auricular keloids. With a median follow-up of 30.5 months (range 24-148), the CR rate was 90% at the last evaluation. The recurrence rate was 38% (n = 30) with a median time of 6 months (range 2-68). Most relapses (63%) were controlled using intralesional steroids or vascular laser.

The retrospective nature of the study and the number of non-included patients without data at 2 years.

The recurrence rate after ExCS was comparable to the published series, and the CR rate at the final follow-up was higher, emphasizing the importance of regular follow-up and potential preventive treatments. ExCS is a simple, well-tolerated, effective method for the treatment of auricular keloids.