Effects of Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment on Patients Affected by Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: A Prospective Study

Background: Fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers are today considered the most effective and efficient treatment for many vulvovaginal disorders, providing mini-invasive procedures without side effects. Previous studies demonstrated the efficacy of fractional CO2 lasers in vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS), a chronic skin disorder characterized by itching and painful lesions. Complications include pain, sexual and/or urinary dysfunction, with a negative quality of life, and an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma. A definitive VLS treatment is still lacking. Objectives: This is a prospective, single-center study aimed at evaluating the effect of fractional microablative CO2 laser treatment on women affected by VLS. Materials and methods: Patients with histologically confirmed VLS underwent three fractional microablative CO2 laser treatments, 4 weeks apart, on the genital affected areas. Clinical and VLS-related symptoms, side effects, and patient satisfaction index were assessed and recorded for all the patients using the visual analog scale (VAS). Results: Data from a total of 70 patients were included, paired at different time points and analyzed. VLS-related symptoms and other relevant parameters (pH, vaginal introitus discomfort, dyspareunia, vaginal dryness, itching, and burning) showed a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.001) after the first laser treatment and kept improving after second and third sessions. According to VAS, the two most common symptoms, vaginal introitus discomfort and dyspareunia, went from (mean ± standard deviation) 8.2 ± 2.3 and 8.3 ± 2.2, respectively, at baseline, to 3.6 ± 2.6 and 3.8 ± 2.6, respectively, 1 month after the last treatment. Vaginal dryness, itching, and burning were significantly improved as well. Most patients declared to be very satisfied with the results of the treatment. A total of 62.8% of the women expressed a satisfaction score ≥8 on a scale from 0 to 10. Conclusions: Fractional microablative CO2 laser treatment seems to be safe and effective to treat VLS and improve VLS-related symptoms.