The Novel Use of Bipolar Radiofrequency Microneedling in the Treatment of Lichen Sclerosus.

Abstract

Introduction: Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic, distressing, inflammatory process that has a huge impact on quality of life in women. Uncontrolled vulvar LS can lead to chronic symptoms of itching and pain and can lead to anatomic changes, scarring, and elevated risk of cancer. First-line therapy with corticosteroids is often not successful in controlling symptoms, especially over the long term. This is the first study to review the effects of bipolar radiofrequency (RF) with microneedling to treat the vaginal and vulvar symptoms of LS.

Materials and methods: This retrospective study was initiated due to the recognition of improvement in vulvar skin condition and resolution of lichen sclerosus symptoms in patients who had already failed traditional treatment and underwent radio frequency with microneedling procedures of the vulva, perineum, and perianal regions. Patients were treated with three treatments of bipolar RF and bipolar RF with microneedling four to eight weeks apart. Patient questionnaires were used to assess improvement in the symptoms of LS including itching, tearing of tissue, changes in the appearance and color of tissue, and dryness of skin and mucosa.

Results: The data from the questionnaires showed a significant reduction or complete resolution in these symptoms, with 86% of the patients reporting either significant or complete resolution. In the case of itching, which is typically one of the most severe symptoms of LS, 91% of patients reported significant or complete resolution. 87% of patients reported symptom resolution lasting at least six months, with 39% of the patients having results lasting 12 months or more before recurrence. Recurrences can be retreated on an as-needed basis or with annual maintenance therapy consisting typically of just one treatment.

Conclusion: Radiofrequency with microneedling treatments for persistent LS showed significant improvement in LS symptoms. As LS is a chronic recurring condition, the treatment protocol resulted in high patient satisfaction for these women who had not experienced these results in terms of amount of symptom resolution or duration of symptom resolution with prior treatments using topical steroid cream or other modalities.