Efficacy and Safety of Carbon Dioxide Ablative Fractional Resurfacing (CO2-AFR) Device in Moderate to Severe Atrophic Acne Scars

Abstract

Acne having a prevalence of > 90% in adolescents persisting in adulthood, causes inflammation and scaring. Acne scars cause severe social, psychological and cosmetic problems. There are many remedies available for acne scars with variable results. CO2-AFR laser is a new modality with more effectiveness and low side effect profile.

Objective:  To determine the effectiveness and safety of CO2-AFR device in the treatment of moderate to severe atrophic acne scars.

Study Design:  Interventional study.

Place and Duration of Study:  This study was conducted at Dermatology Department Unit-I, Mayo Hospital Lahore and duration was 1 year, from April 2015 to March 2016.

Material and Methods:  The 30 patients of either sex, having moderate to severe atrophic acne scars were enrolled in the study. Pretreatment assessment of acne scars was done by using Goodman & Baron qualitative scarring grading system. Patients were treated at 4 – 5 weeks interval with maximum 5 sessions. Objective assessment for efficacy and side effects was done at each session. Data was collected on a specially designed proforma and statistical analysis carried out by using SPSS version 17.

Results:  Significant improvement in acne scars was observed. 14 (46.7%) patients showed good efficacy (50 – 75% reduction), 1 (3.3%) patient came out with excellent efficacy (> 75%) and 14 (46.7%) patients showed fair efficacy (25 – 50% reduction in acne scars). 13.3% patients showed few delayed side effects which resolved with treatment.

Conclusion:  CO2-AFR device was proved to be effective and safe in the treatment of moderate to severe atrophic acne scars.