Fractional Carbon Dioxide Laser Resurfacing in Combination With Potent Topical Corticosteroids for Hypertrophic Burn Scars in the Pediatric Age Group: An Open Label Study

BACKGROUND Lasers and potent topical corticosteroids are used as therapeutic options in hypertrophic burn scars. OBJECTIVE To assess the therapeutic effect of fractional CO2 laser resurfacing in combination with potent topical corticosteroids on hypertrophic burn scars in pediatric age group. METHODS Ten children (5–12 years) with postburn hypertrophic scars were treated with 3 to 5 sessions of fractional CO2 laser resurfacing at 1-month intervals, and triamcinolone suspension was applied immediately after each laser session. Patients were also instructed to apply clobetasol propionate gel for 1 week after each laser session. Response to treatment was assessed using Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and Physician Global Assessment (PGA). Tolerability for the procedure and adverse effects were also assessed. RESULTS Laser sessions were well tolerated under the effect of topical or local anesthesia. At the time of final assessment, there was mean reduction of 4.2 (range: 2.8–7) in VSS. Reduction of VSS by ≥4 points was observed in 8 of 10 cases, whereas PGA revealed excellent response in 6 of 10 cases. No significant adverse effects were reported by any patient. CONCLUSION Fractional CO2 laser resurfacing in combination with potent topical steroids leads to significant therapeutic benefits in children with postburn hypertrophic scars.

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