A Split-Face Comparative Study of ACNE Scar Treatment Using Microneedle Radiofrequency Plus Fractional Carbon Dioxide (Co2) Versus Microneedle Without Radiofrequency Plus Carbon Dioxide (Co<sub>2</sub>)

Objective: To compare microneedle radiofrequency plus fraction CO2 application on one side versus microneedle without radiofrequency plus CO2 application on the other side of the face in the treatment of acne scars. Study Design: Quasi-experimental study. Place and Duration of Study: Dermatology Department, Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan, from Apr 2021 to Jan 2022. Methodology: A total of 78 patients of both genders between the ages of 15 to 45 years having acne scars with Grades 2–4 were included. Patients with history of previous acne treatments, pregnancy, and ischemic heart disease were excluded. It was a split-face study in which 78 patients underwent acne scar treatment with microneedle radiofrequency plus fraction CO2 on left side of face and microneedle without radiofrequency plus CO2 application on the right side of face. All patients were followed 2 months after the completion of treatment. Results: The mean age of patients was 25.95±6.61 years. There were 52 females (66.7%) and 26 male patients (33.3%). The mean Goodman and Baron Scar score at the start of treatment and at 2 months follow up reduced from 31.64±4.13 to 8.73 ± 3.07 on left side of face while it decreased from 30.49±4.08 to 10.96±3.08 on right side of face, the difference between the groups was statistically significant (p<0.001). Conclusion: Microneedle radiofrequency plus fraction CO2 application is better than microneedle without radiofrequency plus CO2 application in the treatment of acne scars.