Make an enquiry
Refer a patient
Patient Portal
HCP Logout

We noticed you are on our AU page. Want to switch regions? Choose from the options:

US
UK
ES
Make an enquiry
Refer a patient

We noticed you are on our AU page. Want to switch regions? Choose from the options:

US
UK
ES
Find a centre
Find a doctor

How are keloid scars treated?

Chapter 03

How are keloid scars treated?

Radiation therapy for keloid scars

Chapter 04

Radiation therapy for keloid scars

Radiation therapy may help treat keloid scars by reducing the inflammation which in turn dampens the excess production of collagen.1,4 Radiation therapy can be used after surgery, with the aim of preventing the scar from recurring; studies show success rates around 80% to 85% with no regrowth of the scar.2,5

Radiation therapy for keloid scars can use a technique called electron beam radiation therapy, which is delivered by a linear accelerator (LINAC).2 Radiation therapy is often started approximately 24 to 72 hours after surgery and may be delivered in up to five treatments sessions within one week.2,4,6

The number of treatment sessions, their duration, and treatment outcomes will vary between patients. Side effects may occur, but these are usually mild to moderate. For example, some patients experience mild redness of the skin immediately following treatment, which this usually subsides over 3 to 4 weeks.5

Enquire now

To find out more about radiation therapy for Keloid scars at GenesisCare, enquire today!

References

  1. Ogawa R. Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars Are the Result of Chronic Inflammation in the Reticular Dermis. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;18(3):606.
  2. Zainib M, Amin NP. Radiation Therapy In The Treatment Of Keloids. [Updated 2022 Aug 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499973/ [accessed April 2023].
  3. Australasian College of Dermatologists. Keloids. August 2015. Available: https://www.dermcoll.edu.au/atoz/keloids/ [accessed April 2023].
  4. Nast A, Gauglitz G, Lorenz K, et al. S2k guidelines for the therapy of pathological scars (hypertrophic scars and keloids) - Update 2020. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2021;19(2):312-327.
  5. Lee SY, Park J. Postoperative electron beam radiotherapy for keloids: treatment outcome and factors associated with occurrence and recurrence. Ann Dermatol. 2015;27(1):53-58.
  6. Wen P, Wang T, Zhou Y, Yu Y, Wu C. A retrospective study of hypofractionated radiotherapy for keloids in 100 cases. Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):3598.

Read next

Condition

Dupuytren’s disease

Dupuytren’s disease is a benign condition that causes excessive scar tissue within the fibrous fascia beneath the skin of the palm of the hand.

Condition

Ledderhose disease

The main cause of Ledderhose disease remains uncertain. However, there are several risk factors associated with developing this disease.

Condition

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a very common repetitive strain condition affecting around 10% of the population at some point in their lives, more commonly women.

Find a centre near you

Disclaimer

Care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of information on this webpage at the date of its publication, however, the information does not take the place of professional or medical advice. Please consult your doctor or treating clinician to determine whether any form of medical treatment or health service is appropriate for you.

Any medical procedure or treatment involving the use of radiation carries risks, including skin irritation and associated pain. Before proceeding with treatment, you should discuss the risks and benefits with an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual treatment outcomes and experiences will vary.