Treating Striae Distensae Albae in Asians: Efficacy and Safety of Combined MFU-V and CaHA

Abstract

Background: This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a single treatment combining microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) and subdermal diluted calcium hydroxylapatite with lidocaine (CaHA+) for Striae Distensae Albae (SDA). Methods: Ten prospectively enrolled women with abdominal, back or thigh SDA were treated with MFU-V at 3 focal depths (4.5, 3.0, and 1.5 mm), followed by 3-6 mL of diluted CaHA+ (1:1 ratio) in the same session. Outcomes were assessed at 1 month, 3 months, and 5 months postprocedure using a 5-point quartile grading scale, an SDA scoring scale, a 10-point visual analog score, and a global aesthetic improvement scale. Results: All patients exhibited improvement in SDA at 3 months, with further improvement at 6 months. Physicians' assessment with the quartile grading scale showed that 8 patients improved moderately, whereas 2 had good improvement at 6 months. The mean overall SDA score was 11.6 at baseline, 11.1 (not significant) at 1 month, 7.9 (P = 0.005) at 3 months, and 6.2 (P = 0.005) at 6 months. All patients had improved global aesthetic improvement scale at 3 and 6 months, with 4 patients being much improved, and 3 patients being very much improved at 6 months. At the end of the study, all patients were less bothered with their SDA compared with baseline with a mean reduction of 2.7 in visual analog score, and all patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment. No adverse events occurred. Conclusion: A single combination treatment of MFU-V and diluted CaHA+ improves SDA without side effects and may be considered for patients seeking to minimize SDA.