Objective

To demonstrate that superficial high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy by means of Leipzig applicators or moulds with catheters is an adjuvant treatment with impact on local control and low toxicity.

Background

Keloid scars occur in 5–15 % of cases, secondary to an uncontrolled proliferation of fibroblasts and reduction in the inhibition of growth factors.

Material and methods

Retrospective, longitudinal and descriptive study in patients with keloid scars who were treated with superficial HDR brachytherapy in the General Hospital of Mexico between November 2009 and December 2013.

Results

Eighty patients were evaluated, and the mean follow-up was 22.18 months (range 8–48). The anatomic site treated was the ear in 72 patients (90.0 %), anterior thorax in 5 patients, retroauricular region in 2, and abdomen region in 1 patient. The application was performed 24h after surgery; the dose for 79 patients (99 %) was 1500 cGy/3 fractions, and 1 received 500cGy in 1 fraction. Adequate healing occurred in 76 patients (95 %), and the local failure was 5 % (95 % CI). Acute toxicity occurred in 15 % (12 patients) with grade 1 radioepithelitis. Chronic toxicity occurred in 22 patients (27.5 %) with grade 1 hypopigmentation and 18 patients (22.5 %) with grade 1 fibrosis. The cosmetic result was good in 72 patients (90 %). During follow-up, 2 patients presented recurrence, and 2 patients persisted.

Conclusions

Treatment with superficial brachytherapy in keloid scars using a mould with catheters or a Leipzig applicator is a therapeutic option that results in 95 % local control and low toxicity.