Satisfaction of Keloids and Hypertrophic Scar Patients Following Fractional CO2 Laser

Background: Different modes of therapy for scars are currently being used and are limited by their efficacy and side effects. Newer modes of therapy including laser, are thus being studied for their efficacy. Aim: Assessment of patients satisfaction following fractional CO2 laser sessions on their scars. Methods: Scars were treated by fractional CO2 laser in thirty patients for a total of 4 sessions 6 weeks apart. Vancouver scar score (VSS) was done before, one, three and 6 months after the last laser session by a blinded observer. Patients satisfaction at the end of the study was graded as excellent (more than 75% improvement), good (50-75% improvement), moderate (25-50% improvement) and poor (less than 25% improvement). Results: Nineteen patients completed the six month follow-up period (12K, 7HTS). VSS score was significantly lower in the treated compared to untreated areas after 3 and 6 months in both K and HTS. Patients were poorly satisfied, 50% of keloid patients, 28.6% of hypertrophic scar patients.