Fractional CO2 Laser in Treating Post Traumatic Scars

Mohamed, Mona Mostafa; Abdel-Mowla, Mahmoud Yousry; Khater, El-Sayed M. Galal

doi:10.21608/zumj.2020.26238.1777

Fractional CO2 Laser in Treating Post Traumatic Scars

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology Department, Zagazig University, Egypt

² Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology Department, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Sharkia, Egypt

10.21608/zumj.2020.26238.1777

Abstract

Background: Scars are abnormal wound responses in predisposed individuals. They occur after any kind of wound and skin inflammation in predisposed individuals. A variety of modalities has been used and, depending on the scar type. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fractional CO2 laser in treatment of post-traumatic scars. Material and Methods: This study included 20 patients (4 males and 16 females) affected by post-burn scars as well as post-traumatic atrophic scars were treated with monthly sessions of fractional CO2 laser treatment. Side effects as well as improvements in texture, atrophy, and overall satisfaction with appearance were graded on a quartile scale by the patients and investigators after each treatment and 3-4 weeks after the final treatment. Before/after scores were compared. Results: Patient’s response to treatment was assessed clinically as well as improvement of scars by comparing the photographs taken before treatment with those taken 6 months after the last treatment session. Treatment outcome and patient satisfaction were assessed on a quartile grading scale and scored individually from 0 to 4. A mean of six treatments per scar were required and all patients, followed up for 3 months after the last treatment, had optimum results and no recurrence. Response to treatment was excellent in 65%, very good in 15% patients, and good in 20% patients. Conclusion: Fractional CO2 laser treatment represents a safe, well-tolerated, effective, and promising treatment modality for post-traumatic, post-burn and post-inflammatory scars, with minimal side effects.

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