A novel technique for treating atrophic facial scars in Asians using ultra‐pulse CO<sub>2</sub> laser
Wenyan Jin, Zhouna Li, Zhehu Jin, Chenglong Jin
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: laser and evaluated its efficacy and safety for treating atrophic facial scars. METHODS: A total of 44 patients with atrophic facial scars were treated with MFTCT every 8 weeks for 1-4 times. Overall scar improvement was assessed by photographs taken at baseline and 3 months after the last treatment according to the 4-point global assessment scale (GAS) and ECCA grading scale. Improvements in color, distortion, and texture were assessed by the modified Manchester Scar Scale and scored individually from 1 to 4. Pain degrees and adverse reactions during and after treatment were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 44 patients completed the treatment and follow-ups; of them, 89% reported at least 50% overall improvement after the last treatment. The mean ECCA scores fell from 67.50 ± 23.98 to 45.68 ± 18.57 (a 32% improvement), and the change was significant (P = .000). The average score for overall improvement was 3.48. The average scores for color, distortion, and texture were 3.07 ± 0.62, 3.27 ± 0.50, and 3.52 ± 0.51, respectively. Mean pain degree score was 4.27 ± 1.04, and mean erythema duration was 28.43 ± 6.58 days. Some patients developed pigmentation for a few months that resolved with topical treatment. CONCLUSION: Manual fractional thermal contraction technology has definite clinical efficacy in the treatment of atrophic facial scars with fewer adverse reactions and is worth using in the clinical setting.