Postoperative radiotherapy with high dose rate Iridium 192 mould for prevention of earlobe keloids

Abstract

Background: A 50% to 80% recurrence rate of earlobe keloids can occur following a simple excision. Many modalities, including radiotherapy, have been suggested to reduce the postoperation recurrence. Objective: The aim of the present study was to determine the efficacy of postoperative radiotherapy by a high dose rate Iridium 192 mould in the prevention of earlobe keloids recurrence. Material and Method: Between March 1999 and March 2003, 22 patients with 24 earlobe keloids were treated by radiotherapy immediately following surgical excision. A dose of 15 Gray in 3 fractions was delivered at a point placed 5 mm from the axis of the Iridium sources. Results: From the 22 patients with 24 keloids who were treated, 15 patients with 16 keloids were followed for a minimum of 6 months. Recurrence occurred in two keloids (12.5%). There were no severe adverse effects. Conclusion: Postoperative radiotherapy by high dose rate Iridium 192 mould was an effective prevention of earlobe keloids recurrence. It was well tolerated and did not present any significant side effects.