Effects of Minimizing Scar Formation by Early Fractional CO2Laser Resurfacing

Abstract

Background Much of the theory regarding the treatment of surgical scars advocates a wait-and-see approach. The use of lasers prophylactically against scarring in the early postoperative period is relatively new. We introduced lasers during the early treatment of scars. Methods We present results using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) Score and discuss the efficacy and safety of our approach. Fractional CO2 lasers (Line-Xel) were used 4 weeks after injury, which is the early remodeling phase, at 4-week intervals. Five treatments were performed. VSS scores were counted before treatment and 5 months after final treatment. Results Each VSS score showed great improvement over time and finally achieved near-normal skin values. No adverse effects or complications, such as wound disruption, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, or dyspigmentation, occurred in the present study. Conclusions This study shows that the use of early fractional CO2 lasers 4 weeks after surgery or trauma is an effective and safe method to minimize scar formation.