Microneedle-Assisted Steroid Delivery Therapy in the Management of Hypertrophic Scars

Abstract

Introduction: Microneedle assisted transdermal delivery is an emerging technique of drug delivery on the horizon with exciting potential therapeutic applications. Aims and Objectives: To study the role of microneedling assisted steroid therapy in the management of hypertrophic scars and make suitable recommendations on employability of the procedure as a treatment modality. Materials and Methods: Twenty six consecutive patients with hypertrophic burn scars were studied. Each scar was divided into two halves–control and test. Both halves received topical fluticasone propionate cream 0.05% once daily, silicone gel sheet and a pressure garment. In addition, the test half received microneedling therapy followed by fluticasone propionate cream 0.05% application twice weekly for twelve sittings. The two halves were evaluated for response using the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) at the beginning and end of therapy. Results: Twenty patients completed the study. No statistically significant difference was noted in the VSS scores of the two halves. Subjective relief of pruritus was found to be statistically significant in the test half. Conclusion: This study found that percutaneous microneedling assisted steroid therapy as per the the regimen used in this study produced no objectively assessed benefit in the management of hypertrophic scars. Relief of pruritus was noted.

Microneedle Electroporation for Intralesional Administration of Corticosteroid Treatment of Keloid Scar

“…In addition to the variability of its effectiveness, the injections are painful and challenging to administer due to the dense fibrous tissue composition of keloid scars. The high pressure required to inject the drug and the resulting pain may deter patients from seeking further treatment, leading to suboptimal outcomes ( 13 ).…”