Combination Treatment of Triamcinolone Acetonide and Ablative Fractional Laser for Hypertrophic Scars

Abstract

Hypertrophic scars are defined as visible and elevated scars that do not spread into the surrounding tissues and often regress spontaneously. They can be itchy, painful, and erythematous, so it is a challenging problem for doctors to manage them. This is because hypertrophic scars are caused by the proliferation of dermal tissue and the excessive accumulation of collagen, long-lasting inflammation, and fibrosis. Triamcinolone acetonide was used because it reduces the collagen and inflammatory process. A fractional laser was also used to flatten the overgrown tissues. Four patients who were treated with triamcinolone acetonide and fractional laser to treat a hypertrophic scar were included retrospectively. All patients were injected with triamcinolone acetonide and fractional laser simultaneously. The results were evaluated every session using the Vancouver Scar scale (VSS) and all patients were asked to express a 4-point subjective scale of satisfaction. Measuring the wound with photographs, the VSS score showed improvement over time. The average VSS score of pretreatment and posttreatment was 12 and 4, respectively. The average number of treatments was 12.75, and the average interval of treatments was 5. Using a patient satisfaction scale, the patients were satisfied (Poor: 0%, Fair: 25%, Good: 50%, Excellent: 25%). No significant adverse effects and complications were encountered. The simultaneous treatment using triamcinolone acetonide and fractional laser can be an effective treatment modality for treating hypertrophic scars.