The Efficacy of Intense Pulsed Light in the Treatment of Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars

[摘要] Introduction: Different therapies have been applied to keloids and hypertrophic scars. Intense pulsed light (IPL) has recently been used but the evidence is limited. This study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of IPL as monotherapy for keloids and hypertrophic scars.Methods: This was a before-and-after interventional study on 16 patients with 50 scars who underwent IPL. Seven scars receive one IPL session, seven received two sessions, and 36 received three sessions. Outcomes were evaluated by the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS), scar ultrasound, colorimeter for pigmentation and erythema, and side effects.Results:20% after the third session. All side effects were mild with crust (33.3-46%), blisters (8.3-40%), and hyperpigmentation around the scar (0-14%); the pain was moderate as assessed by the patients.Conclusions: IPL is a safe and effective treatment for keloids and hypertrophic scars. More studiesare required to confirm our results.

[学科分类] 基础医学

[关键词] Keloid;Hypertrophic scar;Intense pulse light;VSS;POSAS