Manual Fractional Technology with CO2 Laser Combined with Transdermal Drug Delivery for Hypertrophic Scar: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background

Hypertrophic scars are a common fibrotic skin disorder with a high recurrence rate. While various treatment options exist, their efficacy remains uncertain. Manual fractional technology with CO₂ laser technology, a novel approach, has shown promise; however, its effectiveness as a standalone ablative treatment is limited. This retrospective study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes of combining Manual fractional technology with CO₂ laser technology with triamcinolone acetonide and 5-fluorouracil transdermal delivery for the treatment of hypertrophic scars.

Objective

This study retrospectively evaluated the clinical efficacy of MFT with CO₂ laser combined with transdermal triamcinolone acetonide and 5-fluorouracil in treating hypertrophic scars.

Methods

A cohort of 42 patients with 48 hypertrophic scars underwent the combination therapy thrice. Scar evaluations were conducted using the patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS) before treatment and one month after each session. Adverse and complication reactions were monitored, and patients were followed for 6 months post-treatment. Hypertrophic scar recurrence and patient satisfaction were assessed.

Results

The total POSAS score significantly decreased from pre-treatment [48.00 (43.00, 53.75) VS 21.29±7.167; p<0.001]. In the subgroup analysis, treatment outcomes varied significantly by skin type, with scar quantity and genetic factors influencing remission time. The recurrence rate during the 6-month follow-up was 6.24%, with a satisfaction rate of 83.34%. No severe adverse reactions were reported.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that laser-assisted drug delivery using MFT with CO₂ laser demonstrates significant clinical efficacy, a low recurrence rate, and an absence of serious adverse reactions in treating hypertrophic scars. This method shows promise as a novel treatment modality for hypertrophic scars.

Level of Evidence IV

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