CompletedNot Applicable

Comparison of Efficacy of Carbon Dioxide Laser With Subcision Versus Platelet-Rich Plasma Bio-Fillers With Subcision for the Treatment of Atrophic Acne

Pakistan100 participantsStarted 2025-08-10

Plain-language summary

This randomized controlled trial compared two combined treatment approaches for atrophic acne scars. A total of 100 patients aged 15-45 years were enrolled from the Department of Dermatology, Lahore General Hospital, Lahore, and were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups. All participants underwent subcision, a minor procedure in which fibrous bands beneath depressed acne scars were released to elevate the scarred skin. Participants in one group received platelet-rich plasma bio-filler injections after subcision. The bio-filler was prepared from each participant's own blood and was injected beneath the acne scars to provide volume and promote collagen formation. Participants in the other group received fractional carbon dioxide laser treatment after subcision. The laser created controlled microscopic skin injuries intended to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture. Three treatment sessions were administered at 4-week intervals. Treatment outcomes were assessed using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale at baseline and during follow-up. Treatment-related adverse effects, including pain, erythema, bruising, and changes in skin pigmentation, were also recorded. Treatment efficacy was defined as a reduction of more than 50% in acne scar severity.

Who can participate

Age range

15 Years – 45 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients of age 15-45 years, * both genders, * presenting with atrophic acne scars Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with photosensitive dermatosis, keloids, active acne, already taking steroidal, laser or trial treatment in last 6 months, hepatitis B or hepatitis C, hypothyroidism (TSH\>5IU), pregnant or breast feeding, skin infection or inflammatory skin disorders requiring systemic antimicrobials (on medical record). * Patients with connective tissue disorders or hypersensitivity to lidocaine, taking antiplatelet therapy, bleeding tendencies (on clinical examination)

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Change in Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale Score

Timeframe: Baseline and 4, 8, and 12 weeks after initiation of treatment.

Proportion of Participants Achieving Treatment Efficacy

Timeframe: 12 weeks after initiation of treatment.

Trial details

NCT IDNCT07752186

SponsorLahore General Hospital

Sponsor typeOTHER_GOV

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2026-02-10

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Atrophic Acne Scars trials