ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Postoperative radiation therapy is an accepted adjuvant treatment to prevent keloid recurrence after complete surgical excision. The aim is to present our experience using surgical excision followed by postoperative single fractional 1000cGy radiotherapy on the same day (6-8hours after surgery) or postop day 1(19-23hours after surgery) for keloids.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: 120 keloid patients were treated with complete excision followed by single-fractional 1000cGy radiotherapy within 24 hours postoperatively. The mean follow-up period was 12 months. The outcome was reported with a recurrence-free rate. We also reported side effects.
RESULTS: The overall recurrence-free rate was over 90%. Most recurred cases were related to early wound healing disruptions within three weeks after initial surgical excision. The side effects were minimal, with some reported hyperpigmentation, dermatitis, and ulceration. Second malignancy or serious complications were not reported.
CONCLUSION: Complete excision followed by postoperative single fractional 1000cGy radiotherapy on the same day or postoperative day 1 is a safe and effective treatment for keloids. Strict wound management is required. Our early outcome needs further long-term validation.