Hypertrophic Scars of the Hand: The Role of Electrophotobiomodulation Theory as a Recent Line of Treatment

Abstract

Background: A more enduring strategy for the treatment of hypertrophic scars of the hand is still a challenge facing restorative dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Nonetheless, with the use of nonablative devices, intense pulsed light and different types of lasers have started to yield promising outcomes and are close to becoming an effective and dependable technique. The advances in radiofrequency energy have brought new life to optical-based frameworks. Radiofrequency current delivers an unadulterated heat effect according to the electrical response characteristics of each tissue. The purpose of this study was to assess the patient satisfaction, safety, and clinical efficacy of the use of electrophotobiomodulation (combined intense pulsed light and radiofrequency energy) in the treatment of postburn hypertrophic scars of the hand. Methods: This was a prospective clinical study that was performed on 56 patients who presented with postburn hypertrophic scars on the hands between March of 2013 and January of 2020. Results: The clinical appraisal showed excellent results in 33 patients (58.9%), good results in 18 patients (32.2%), fair results in five patients (8.9%), and no poor results. Conclusion: The use of radiofrequency energy combined with intense pulsed light was effective for the treatment of hand scars on people with various skin tones. CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic, IV.