Vaginal Natural Oxygenation Device (VNOD) and Lichen: A Pilot Study on the Assessment of Effectiveness of the Simultaneous and Local Administration of High Concentration Oxygen and Hyaluronic Acid to treat Vulvar Lichen Scleroatrophicus

Abstract

Background This is a pilot study to assess the effectiveness of simultaneous and local administration of high concentration oxygen and hyaluronic acid by a specific medical device (VNOD) to improve vulvar lichen symptoms healing vulvar lesions. Methods 17 women with histological diagnosis of vulvar lichen were included. Five weekly administrations of concomitant oxygen-hyaluronic acid therapy with VNOD were performed. The severity of the pathology was evaluated using the Vaginal Health Index (VHI). Patients’ symptoms were evaluated with two questionnaires: VAS and FSFI. VAS, FSFI and VHI were evaluated at the start and at the end of the therapy. The statistical analysis was performed according to the Kruskal-Wallis method and using the t-test calculator. Results The study has showed that each subsequent treatment determined a significant increase in all parameters, especially for VHI hydration index, VAS fluidity index and FSFI lubrication index, however all the patients reported a recovery of their sexuality at the end of the five treatment sessions. All the parameters maintain their value at six weeks of follow-up. No adverse effects were observed. Conclusions Combined topical oxygen therapy with hyaluronic acid by VNOD seems to be a valid and totally painless treatment for vulvar lichen scleroatrophicus, improving symptomatology, and sexual wellbeing.