ABSTRACT
Background: The plasma jet is a non-surgical and minimally invasive procedure that acts by heating the superficial region of the skin, providing rejuvenation of the region. Objective: We sought to compare the clinical and histological effects of direct plasma jet versus electrocarbonization without plasma in the treatment of wrinkles in the upper palpebral region. Methods: This is a clinical trial in which 20 volunteers participated and divided into two groups: electrocarbonization (EG) and plasma jet (JPG), which were clinically evaluated before and after treatment through evaluation protocols, photographs, and questionnaires. Three treatment sessions were performed in the upper eyelid region with an interval of 30 days. After the treatment, a surgical procedure of upper blepharoplasty was performed on two volunteers to remove a skin fragment and later histological analysis. Results: The JPG showed better clinical responses in rejuvenation. The EG promoted an increase in the number of fibroblasts, the number of blood vessels and the amount of inflammation. The JPG showed an increase in the number of fibroblasts and blood vessels. It was observed that the JPG generated activation of T lymphocytes (CD3), macrophages (CD68), and plasmocytes (CD138); in addition to reducing the number of positive cells for CD57 (NK cells). The satisfaction analysis shows that 100 percent in the JPG considered themselves satisfied with the treatment. Conclusion: We verified that in comparison with electrocarbonization, the use of a direct plasma jet promoted tissue improvement at the histological level, in addition to fewer adverse reactions.
ABSTRACT
Objective The population's ever-growing concern with genital aesthetic dysfunctions reflects an increasing demand in the field of intimate aesthetics. For this reason, as well as the lack of a standardized evaluation, this paper aims to develop a form that facilitates the initial investigation of aesthetic genital dysfunctions. Methods An evaluation form for female and male genital dyschromia was developed between July and November 2018. Following initial development, the form was evaluated for quality and was updated by a panel of specialists (a psychologist, two pelvic dysfunction physiotherapists, and two dermato-functional physiotherapists) via email and through a content validity questionnaire. The face validity of the form was assessed by five physiotherapy and medical students who were randomly selected. The students answered a questionnaire evaluating the proposed form. The reliability of the form was established through the test-retest procedure by evaluating its reproducibility over time. Results The "Genital Dyschromia Evaluation Form'' (composed of identification, anamnesis, and physical examination sections) was approved by the specialist panel. They suggested questions to be added in the anamnesis (dermatological lesions or fungal and bacterial infections) and physical examination (hyperemia, edema in the perianal and internal thigh region) sections. As for the image analysis, an increase in quality, resolution, and sharpness was suggested. Lastly, for the cutaneous phototype evaluation, the DoctorSkinFototipo® digital analyzer device was chosen since it is small, portable, easily positioned on the genital area, and can be readily cleaned between patients. Conclusion The "Genital Dyschromia Evaluation Form" is a questionnaire approved by specialists and could represent a suitable option for health professionals.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Cryofrequency combines cryotherapy with radiofrequency, reaching the tissue in different layers, providing various biological effects, and reducing localized adiposity. OBJECTIVE: We sought to evaluate the efficacy of cryofrequency in reducing localized adiposity. METHODS: The study population consisted of 63 women with infra-abdominal adiposity, evaluated before and after treatment using evaluation protocols, questionnaires, and ultrasound imaging. The volunteers were randomly distributed into three subgroups; of these, Group 1 (G01) received the cryofrequency treatment (temperature of -10°C, 85% power); Group 2 (G02) underwent cryofrequency associated with ultracavitation (frequency of 60 Hz, 70% power, shooting at 25%, duty cycle of 60% on and 40% off); and the control group (CG) received cryotherapy alone (temperature of -10°C). All groups were submitted to four treatment sessions, one session per week. RESULTS: The reduction in the fat layer analyzed by ultrasonography showed that the right side of G01 presented a significant difference in comparison with CG (p=0.01); a significant difference was also observed in the comparison between the G01 and G02 groups (p=0.001). Considering the left side, significant differences were observed in G01 when compared with CG (p=0.01) and between G01 and G02 (p=0.001). The variables of plicometry and perimetry presented a significant difference relative to in CG; however, no differences were observed with regard to weight or body mass index (p>0.05). The majority of participants reported positive feelings about the treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The cryofrequency protocol alone led to a significant reduction in the fat layer but its association with ultracavitation led to superior results.
