Efficacy and safety of phototherapies for upper lip scars in cleft lip patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract

Cleft lip is a prevalent congenital developmental defect, and its surgical repair often results in scarring that adversely impacts facial aesthetics, function, and mental health. Numerous studies have examined the efficacy and safety of phototherapy for scar treatment. However, definitive evidence is lacking. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of phototherapies for treating upper lip scars in cleft lip patients. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science databases using specific search terms. We collected clinical trials on laser or other phototherapy treatments for upper lip scars after cleft lip surgery published up to the end of March 2024. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed quality based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data were analyzed by using RevMan 5.4 statistical software. A total of 9 studies were included. ① Analysis of the clinical efficacy rate between the control group (routine care) and the intervention group (phototherapy) showed that laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment significantly reduced total VSS scores (P<0.0001). ② Analysis of the Pretest-Posttest cohort showed that total VSS scores were significantly reduced after phototherapy (P<0.00001). ③ Timing of phototherapy intervention analysis: early postoperative phototherapy intervention had a better effect. None of the literature reported permanent complications, nor were there any serious adverse events, only localized temporary erythema or blisters. Phototherapy can effectively improve the total VSS scores of upper lip scars after cleft lip surgery (including skin color, vascular distribution, softness, and thickness) with no apparent adverse reactions or serious complications. Early phototherapy intervention for upper lip scars has a better effect.