{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Laser therapy for treating cleft lip or/and palate scarring-a systematic review and meta-analysis.
{Author}: Sun Y;Li Z;Qi X;Wang B;Yu N;Huang J;Ting W;Long X;
{Journal}: Lasers Med Sci
{Volume}: 39
{Issue}: 1
{Year}: 2024 Jun 20
{Factor}: 2.555
{DOI}: 10.1007/s10103-024-04082-3
{Abstract}: This review aims to assess the efficacy and safety of laser therapy in managing scars resulting from cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) repair surgeries, as well as to determine the optimal timing for intervention. A systematic search was conducted across four databases using a predefined search strategy. Studies included were randomized controlled trials, non-randomized studies, and case series focusing on laser therapy for CL/P scars. Data extraction and analysis were performed using Revman Software. A total of two randomized controlled trials, four non-randomized studies, and three case series were included in the analysis. The fractional CO2 laser was the most commonly utilized type of laser. Following laser therapy, there was a significant decrease in Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) scores by 4.05 (95% CI, 2.10-5.99). Meta-analysis revealed that laser treatment groups exhibited a significantly lower mean VSS score (1.3; 95% CI, 0.02-2.67) compared to control groups. Moreover, initiating laser therapy intervention at one month postoperatively resulted in a significantly lower VSS score compared to initiation at three months postoperatively (difference of 1.70; 95% CI, 1.33-2.08). No severe complications were reported. Laser therapy demonstrates effectiveness and safety in improving CL/P scars, with earlier intervention yielding greater benefits.