Smart Use of Skin Biopsy Punch in Treating Keloids: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

Background

Treatment of scarring has long been a problem due to high incidence and recurrence. Despite many existing treatment therapies, the efficacy remains unstable.

Objectives

To determine the efficacy and safety of skin biopsy punch in combination with corticosteroid injection (BPCI) in treating keloids.

Approach

This was a retrospective study. In total, 16 patients with keloids received BPCI. Changes in scar appearance, accompanied symptoms, and Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) were analyzed. Patient satisfaction, VAS scores, and adverse effects were also evaluated.

Results

Scar appearance, accompanied symptoms, and VSS scores improved significantly after the treatment. The total effective rate was 93.75% at an 18-month follow-up on average. The mean reduction rate of VSS score was 62.25% (p < 0.0001), especially in height and pliability (84.44% and 78.19%, p < 0.0001). The recurrence rate in this study was 12.5% (n = 2) at an 18-month follow-up on average. Mild adverse effects of pain, pruritus, hypopigmentation, and telangiectasia were recorded.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated BPCI might be an effective and safe therapy in keloids with a low long-time recurrence rate and well tolerance for patients.

Level of Evidence IV

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