L Rusciani1, G Rossi, R Bono. 1. Clinica Dermatologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Numerous approaches are used to treat keloids, but none is ideal for all scars and recurrence after treatment is frequent. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of cryotherapy for treatment of these scars. METHODS: Sixty-five lesions of various sizes and ages were treated with a hand-held liquid nitrogen spray unit; freeze times and number of sessions varied. Scar volume was measured before and after treatment. RESULTS: Complete flattening was achieved in 48 scars (73%), most of which were less than 2 years old. Unacceptable responses were seen in six scars. No recurrence was seen during follow-ups ranging from 17 to 42 months. Side effects were limited to hypopigmentation and slight to moderate atrophy in three cases. CONCLUSION: Cryotherapy is an effective, low-risk approach to keloid treatment associated with a low rate of recurrence.
BACKGROUND: Numerous approaches are used to treat keloids, but none is ideal for all scars and recurrence after treatment is frequent. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of cryotherapy for treatment of these scars. METHODS: Sixty-five lesions of various sizes and ages were treated with a hand-held liquid nitrogen spray unit; freeze times and number of sessions varied. Scar volume was measured before and after treatment. RESULTS: Complete flattening was achieved in 48 scars (73%), most of which were less than 2 years old. Unacceptable responses were seen in six scars. No recurrence was seen during follow-ups ranging from 17 to 42 months. Side effects were limited to hypopigmentation and slight to moderate atrophy in three cases. CONCLUSION: Cryotherapy is an effective, low-risk approach to keloid treatment associated with a low rate of recurrence.