Fractional Resurfacing Device for Treatment of Acne Scarring

• Safety [ Time Frame: During each treatment and 3 days - 3 months after each treatment ] [ Designated as safety issue: Yes ]
• Pain assessment [ Time Frame: At each laser treatment ] [ Designated as safety issue: Yes ]

The purpose of this research study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a new investigational laser device for treatment of acne scarring, for improvement in the appearance of surface texture and topography (recessed or uneven surfaces).

Fifteen subjects with an acne scar severity score greater than 4 will receive up to 3 treatments with an FDA IDE and IRB approved 10,600nm fractional CO2 laser system. Improvement of acne scarring is evaluated at 72 hours, 1 week, 1 month and 3 months post-treatment.

Post-treatment responses evaluated are immediate erythema, immediate edema, and any other immediate responses. Evaluations are conducted immediate post treatment and one week post-treatment. Key safety data include the severity scoring of post-treatment responses, as well as by photodocumentation.

The incidence of side effects such as scarring, pigmentary changes, etc. are evaluted at follow-up visits one and three months post-treatment. Key safety data include the incidence rates and severity scoring of side effects, as well as by photodocumentation

Inclusion Criteria:

• Have Fitzpatrick skin type I-V. (Type I is blonde/red hair with freckles and Type V are Hispanics and lighter African Americans.)
• Are male or female.
• Are between 18 and 75 years of age.
• Have moderate to severe acne scarring. Acne scarring will be assessed with the Acne Scar Severity Scale. Subjects will be eligible for treatment if the area to be treated is scored as having an Acne Scar Severity Score > 4 according to the Acne Scar Severity Scale (0-9).
• Are able to read, understand, and sign the Informed Consent.
• Are willing and able to comply with all follow-up requirements for a minimum of 8 months.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Have had active localized or systemic infections within 6 months of enrollment
• Have compromised ability for wound healing, such as: malnutrition, oral steroid use, history of collagen vascular disease (e.g. lupus, scleroderma, history of keloid formation (raised and thickened scars), atrophic dermatitis (extreme skin irritation or itchiness) or immunologic abnormalities such as vitiligo (white patches of skin due to loss of pigment)
• Have immunocompromised status (inability to resist infection, etc.)
• Have been treated with lasers, chemical procedures, or other cosmetic procedures on the area to be treated within 6 months of enrollment
• Have taken Accutane within 12 months of enrollment
• Are allergic to lidocaine (skin numbing agent)
• Are allergic to Valtrex (an anti-viral medication)