Combining micro-plasma radio-frequency with hypofractionated electron-beam radiation as a novel treatment of keloids: A case series

RATIONALE: Micro-plasma radio-frequency (MPR) technology has been demonstrated a safe and effective treatment for kinds of scars, but there is no report about the application of the MPR on keloids. In this investigation, we creatively use MPR technology combining with hypofractionated electron-beam radiation to cure keloids. PATIENT CONCERNS AND DIAGNOSES: From February 2013 to December 2016, 22 Asian patients (16 male, 6 female, age 19–46 years, mean age 28.14 ± 7.31 years) with keloids over half a year were enrolled in this study. INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES: All patients received a single MPR technology treatment by roller tip at 80–100 watt, and then hypofractionated electron-beam radiation of 6 MeV were performed twice, within 24 hours and one week after the operation with 9 Gy per time. Improvement were determined by the Vancouver Scar Scales (VSS) according to digital photographs. The results show that the volume of keloids reduced significantly among most patients. Only 3 patients encountered with mild to moderate hyperpigmentation, and none of malignance and worsening or recurrence of scars was observed. LESSONS: MPR technology combined with post-operative hypofractionated electron-beam radiation therapy is an effective method for patients with multiple keloids distributed widely on the body with minimal complications, especially for patients with widely distributed keloids.