A comparative study of efficacy and safety of microneedling fractional radiofrequency with and without subcision for facial acne scars

• Author Details:   
• Ron Thomas ^*
• Yogesh Devaraj
• Jithin Jayaraj
• Mukunda Ranga Swaroop
• Akshatha V Reddy
• Nischitha Rudraiah

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Background: Severe acne causes scarring and disfigurement leading to considerable psychological and social distress. Various traditional modalities have been used for treatment, but have shown limited efficacy. Hence, there is a growing need for novel approach which is safer and more efficient with faster recovery time.

Aim and Objectives: To compare the efficacy and safety of Microneedling Fractional Radiofrequency (MNRF) with and without subcision in the treatment of acne scars.

Materials and Methods: Thirty patients aged between 18 and 40 years with acne scars were divided into two groups: Group A (treated with MNRF combined with subcision) and Group B (treated with MNRF alone). Each patient underwent four treatment sessions at monthly intervals. Clinical evaluation was performed using Goodman and Baron’s qualitative and quantitative grading scales, along with patient satisfaction scoring, one month after the final treatment session.

Results: A total of 30 patients were enrolled in the study, with 15 patients assigned to each of the two groups. One month after the fourth treatment session, according to Goodman and Baron’s qualitative grading 50% of patients in Group A showed acne scar reduction by three grades, whereas no such improvement was observed in Group B. Although scar improvement appeared greater in Group A, the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.464). On Goodman and Baron’s quantitative assessment, 40% of patients in Group A achieved a very good reduction in scars compared to 6.67% in Group B, (P = 0.013, which was statistically significant). Additionally, 40% of patients in Group A reported being very satisfied with the treatment, when compared to 13.3% in Group B. The mean satisfaction score was also higher in Group A.

Conclusion: MNRF with subcision was more efficacious and safer in the treatment of acne scars and patients receiving this, were more satisfied when compared to those receiving MNRF alone. Both groups tolerated the procedure well and there were no serious post procedure complications.