Clinical and histologic evaluation of a fractional radiofrequency treatment of wrinkles and skin texture with novel 1‐mm long ultra‐thin electrode pins

Abstract

Background: Fractional radiofrequency (RF) microneedling technologies have shown effectiveness in treating skin laxity and wrinkles. We report the first experience using a novel device with 1-mm long ultrathin electrodes that utilizes a smooth RF-assisted ablation mode. Objective: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of treatment with a fractional RF device using 1.0-mm long × 0.15-mm diameter ultrathin electrode tips for improvement of facial skin texture and wrinkles. Methods and Materials: This was a prospective, open-label, intraindividual-controlled trial. Nine participants (mean age: 47.6, Fitzpatrick skin type II-IV, Fitzpatrick Elastosis Wrinkle Scale [FEWS] score: 3-6) underwent six treatment sessions with a fractional RF technology utilizing an array of 6 × 6 1-mm long ultrathin electrodes. Treatment effectiveness was assessed by FEWS and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Safety and tolerance were evaluated. Results: Three months after the sixth treatment session, blinded, investigatorassessed FEWS decreased from baseline 4.33 ± 0.67-3.33 ± 0.67 (p < 0.005); 88.9% of participants showed overall skin improvement using the physicianassessed GAIS, and all of the participants reported improvement in skin texture and wrinkles. Treatment was well tolerated, with no adverse events and no downtime. Histological analysis in a porcine model showed a fractional pattern of epidermal ablation and dermal coagulation with intervening zones of normal healthy tissue. These changes were followed by progressive epithelialization over a period of 13 days. Conclusion:The fractional RF technology with the novel 1.0 long × 0.15 mm ultrathin electrodes tips was effective in improving skin texture and wrinkles without impacting the participants' daily activities.

Israeli Innovations in the Field of Plastic Surgery

“…In turn, the affected skin undergoes wound healing via neocollagenesis, elastin production, glycosaminoglycan formation, and neovascularization. 77,82,83 These phenomena ultimately lead to skin rejuvenation. VoluDerm (Lumenis Ltd.) is a fractional radio frequency device designed for noninvasive treatment of dermatological conditions.…”

“…Because of the noninvasive nature of the treatment, it has gained popularity as a treatment modality. 77 78…”

“…In their prospective trial, Kauvar and Gershonowitz showed improvement in skin texture and wrinkles with no major complications noted following six treatments of VoluDerm. 77…”

“…In their prospective trial, Kauvar and Gershonowitz showed improvement in skin texture and wrinkles with no major complications noted following six treatments of VoluDerm. 77 Syneron Candela Ltd., Yokneam, Israel Similar to Lumenis Ltd., Syneron Candela Ltd. (Israel) has developed numerous radio frequency devices for treating the aging skin and other dermatological conditions such as acne and scars. Ablative and nonablative modalities each demonstrate their own unique set of drawbacks that radio frequency technologies attempt to address.…”

Introduction to 2022 special dermatology/plastic surgery issue

“…Energy-Based Devices in Surgery and Medicine might be a clunky title for a journal, but multiple articles in this issue reflect the reality of a burgeoning literature in non-laser technology in addition to exciting advances in laser applications and combination therapies. Thermo-mechanical injury, 1 fractional radiofrequency (FRF), 2,3 acoustic subcision, 4 nanopulse stimulation, 5 and electrochemical lipolysis, 6 all make appearances.…”