Histological Modifications of Postmenopausal Vaginal Mucosa after Regenerative Solid State Laser Treatment: A Multicenter Study

Background: Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) is a condition afflicting more than 50% of women and nowadays has changed his name in Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) due to the multiple aspects involved having an adverse impact on quality of life. Many treatment are now available and laser represent a new powerful option. The aim of this work is assess the histological effect of a new type of non-ablative laser, Solid State Vaginal Laser (SSVL), on vaginal tissue in women treated for GSM. Method: Eighty participants with GSM symptoms were treated with a total of 4 treatments in a two months timeframe (every 15-20 day) of a non-ablative SSVL (LASEmaR 1500TM EUFOTON). Vaginal biopic samples were collected before the start of the first treatment and after 4 weeks from the last one and an analysis of histological characteristics was conducted. A cumulative intensity of GSM symptoms using a 10-cm VAS (dryness and/or burning and/or dyspareunia), the vaginal health index (VHI), the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF) were also evaluated. Results: Improvement in vaginal histological parameters for atrophy was demonstrated following the SSVL treatment. Amelioration was observed in order of thickening of the derma surface, phenomenon of glycogenic acanthosis, increased number and highness of papillae in chorion and in term of reduction in the inflammatory tissue infiltrate. Was also observed on VHIS, VVA symptoms and sexual female function. Conclusion: The evaluation of histological results indicates a favorable effect of SSVL on vaginal atrophy in GSM in terms of epithelium restauration as well as on inflammatory infiltration of the tissue.