From the Research
Triamcinolone injections for keloid scars should begin 2-3 weeks after surgery, as this timing allows for adequate wound healing while minimizing the risk of keloid recurrence. The standard approach involves injecting triamcinolone acetonide (10-40 mg/ml concentration) directly into the surgical site once the incision has adequately healed and sutures have been removed 1. These injections are usually administered every 3-4 weeks for several months, with the exact duration depending on how the scar responds. The timing is crucial because starting too early might impair wound healing, while delaying too long could allow the keloid to recur. Triamcinolone works by suppressing inflammation and inhibiting fibroblast proliferation, which helps prevent the excessive collagen production that causes keloids. Patients should expect some discomfort during injections and possible side effects including skin atrophy, hypopigmentation, or telangiectasia. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Some key points to consider when administering triamcinolone injections for keloid scars include:
- The concentration of triamcinolone acetonide used, which can range from 10-40 mg/ml 2
- The frequency of injections, which can be every 3-4 weeks 1
- The importance of monitoring for side effects, such as skin atrophy or hypopigmentation 3
- The potential benefits of combining triamcinolone injections with other treatments, such as pulsed dye laser therapy 4
It's also important to note that the response to corticosteroid injection alone can be variable, with 50-100% regression and a recurrence rate of 33% and 50% after 1 and 5 years, respectively 1. However, the combination of surgical removal followed by triamcinolone injections offers better outcomes than either treatment alone for preventing keloid recurrence. Overall, triamcinolone injections are a effective treatment option for keloid scars, and should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.