Evaluation of combining ultrapulse CO2 with fractional CO2 laser for the treatment of atrophic scars in Asians

Abstract

Various treatment modalities have been applied to atrophic scars. Fractional CO₂ laser treatment has attracted increasingly more attention because of its quicker recovery time and fewer side effects. However, its limitation of sculpting the edge is an urgent shortcoming. In order to achieve a more effective result with fewer complications, we have integrated ultrapulse CO₂ and fractional CO₂ lasers to for the treatment of facial atrophic scars. The study included 25 patients (10 males and 15 females) diagnosed with moderate to severe atrophic scars between August 2020 and July 2022. All subjects underwent the same surgical treatment. The effects were assessed at baseline, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months using photographic evidence. Objective evaluation of the results was conducted using a quartile grading scale, while the subjects' satisfaction and any adverse events were also recorded. The patients in the study underwent more than two laser sessions (2-5), resulting in substantial improvement in their appearance. The time interval between each session was 3-6 months. The majority of the patients (19/25, 76%) had a significant or even excellent improvement. Any adverse events observed, such as erythema, superficial crusting, and PIH, were of a mild nature and temporary in duration. This treatment combined two CO₂ lasers is an effective and safe choice for atrophic scars in Asians.

Keywords: Atrophic scars; Fractional CO2 laser; Ultrapulse CO2 laser.