Evaluation of the Efficacy of Laser Therapy in Treating Postoperative Scars in Athletes and Its Impact on Recovery Time and Return to Physical Activity

Abstract

Postoperative scarring presents a significant challenge in sports medicine, particularly for athletes seeking a rapid return to intensive physical activity. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of laser therapy in improving the quality of postoperative scars and its impact on rehabilitation time. A cohort of competitive athletes aged 18–40 with hypertrophic scars resulting from orthopedic surgeries underwent five biweekly sessions of laser therapy using fractional CO2 and pulsed dye lasers (PDL). Scar assessment included the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and Cutometer-based skin elasticity measurements, with additional evaluations of pain and functionality using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Fractional CO2 laser therapy significantly reduced VSS scores by 2.5 points and increased skin elasticity by 15%, while PDL therapy effectively decreased erythema by 30%. Athletes treated with laser therapy returned to high-intensity training an average of three weeks earlier than those receiving standard scar treatments. Side effects, such as transient redness and swelling, were mild and resolved within 2–3 days. These findings suggest that laser therapy, particularly fractional CO2 and PDL, is a safe and effective intervention for managing postoperative scars in athletes, enhancing both aesthetic and functional outcomes while accelerating rehabilitation timelines. Further research is recommended to optimize protocols and evaluate long-term benefits.