The efficacy and safety of the innovative cold atmospheric-pressure plasma technology in the treatment of striae distensae: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Available current therapeutics modalities for striae distensae (SD) provide inconsistently effective outcomes. There is ongoing research on innovative treatment modalities to find better treatment solutions.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of innovative cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) technology in the treatment of striae distensae.

METHODS: This study includes twenty-three patients with striae distensae. The body was divided into two halves. One side was randomly treated with CAP biweekly on the same treated side for five sessions with 30 days follow-up after the last session. Another half was left untreated. Efficacy assessment was done using patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS), patient satisfaction scales, and Antera 3D® skin imaging system. Safety assessment was evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS) and adverse effects monitoring.

RESULTS: Patient and observer scar assessment scale, patient and observer overall opinion score, and patient and observer total score in a summary of all rated characteristics, comparing treated and untreated areas, showed a statistically significant reduction in all parameters after one treatment (*p-value <0.05). Patients rated satisfaction as a great improvement in 52.3%, moderate improvement in 39.1%, extreme improvement in 4.3%, and slight improvement in 4.3%. Adverse effects included small scabs, shallow wounds, and rash.

CONCLUSION: Cold atmospheric plasma is a safe and effective, innovative treatment modality for striae distensae with minimal side effects.