In vivo histological evaluation of fractional ablative microplasma radio frequency technology using a roller tip: an animal study.

The aim of the present study is to investigate the histological characteristics associated with microplasma radio frequency (MPRF) technology in an animal study using different treatment parameters. Two white piglets, aged 6 months, received MPRF treatment using a roller tip; the treatment site was located on the dorsal skin. Four groups of parameters were adopted regarding the performance of the treatment at four zones on the dorsum. Immediately, at 7 days and at 1, 3, and 6 months posttreatment, we observed the healing process and obtained specimens from each treatment zone. Hematoxylin and eosin and Masson stainings of histological sections were performed to assess the degree of tissue injury, the heat effect, the healing process, and neocollagenesis. Heat shock protein (HSP) was also detected using immunohistochemistry. The roller tip generated a fractional treatment, which had a general trend involving an increase in depth and width with increasing pulse energy and decreasing sliding speed. During the wound healing process, dermal neocollagenesis was stimulated, remodeled, and matured gradually. The expression of HSP47 and HPS72 was elevated in the dermis surrounding the microlesions after treatment; it peaked at 1 month posttreatment and became diffuse in the dermis. MPRF is a promising fractional skin resurfacing technique. The roller tip can be used with low risk in the entire treatment zone with rapid healing. An appropriate treatment regimen should be chosen to guarantee therapeutic efficacy and safety.