Application of Fractional Microneedling Radiofrequency and Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma in Managing Facial Acne Scars

Abstract

Background: Many treatment modalities were tried to treat acne scar & still big challenge for dermatologists. Radiofrequency is a non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation used in medicine for nearly 75 years and the application of autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma has been safely used and documented in many fields of medicine. In dermatology and cosmetics they also are used in treating different conditions. Aim of Study: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of fractional microneedling radiofrequency (FMR) and autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) a for treatment of facial acne scars. Patients and Methods: A therapeutic comparative study carried out in Dermatology Sulaimani Private Center for period from 1st of November, 2014 to end of June, 2015. Forty patients with acne scar were included, we divided these patients into 2 groups; group –A (22 patients were treated with FMR alone) & group- B (18 patients treated with both FMR & autologous PRP). Both groups were treated by 3 sessions at 4 weeks interval in between sessions. Clinical assessment of improvement was assessed by the patient himself (patient assessment) and two dermatologists by using standardized digital photography (physician assessment). Results: Most of the patients in both groups had showed a good improvement in their facial acne scar with the use of our treatment.  Females were more than males with mean age of 30 years.  There was a significant association between excellent improvement (by physician assessment and patients assessment) and patients acne scar treated in group- B (FMR & PRP) (p=0.02).                                    Conclusion: Combination of FMR & autologous PRP is highly effective method for treating acne scars and it had an excellent satisfaction rate among patients.