Gynecology & Obstetrics
Open Access
ISSN: 2161-0932
ISSN: 2161-0932
J Salinas Pena
Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Spain
Scientific Tracks Abstracts: Gynecol Obstet
INTRODUCTION: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a chronic and progressive condition that can significantly impact quality of life. Due to the adverse events (AEs) and contraindications associated with hormonal therapies, there has been growing interest in non-invasive alternatives, such as vaginal laser treatments. The non-ablative 1,540 nm wavelength in this novel mixed laser technology enhances the effects of the 10,600 nm CO2 laser by providing synergistic, deeper hyperthermic stimulation of collagen and elastin, without compromising the superficial layers. This approach results in fewer AEs and may effectively reverse vaginal atrophy while reducing the CO2 laserâ??s power to 5W. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this innovative mixed-wavelength laser in alleviating GSM symptoms, compared to a sham treatment. OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of combined 10,600 nm and 1540 nm laser therapy, using a reduced 10,600 nm power of 5 W, to improve vaginal maturation values (VMV) and alleviate GSM symptoms in postmenopausal women who were refractory to first-line topical treatments. METHOD: A single-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial was conducted at the Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, Spain. A total of 31 postmenopausal women with severe GSM symptoms refractory to first- and secondline treatments and VMV <50% were enrolled. Participants were randomized into two groups: 14 in the laser group and 13 in the placebo group. The intervention consisted of three monthly treatments using the mixed-wavelength laser. VMV, vaginal pH, and GSM symptom severity were assessed at 3 and 9 months post-intervention, along with an evaluation of adverse events (AEs). RESULTS: By 12.4% compared to the sham group (P= 0.033), indicating a significant reversal of vaginal atrophy (VA) and a significant patient global improvement (P=0.030). At 9 months, dyspareunia decreased significantly (P = 0.049), while other symptoms and patient satisfaction demonstrated trends of significant improvement. However, VMV in the laser group returned to baseline values. Vaginal pH remained unchanged. The laser intervention was well tolerated, with mild and self-limited AEs. CONCLUSIONS: The sequential application of the non-ablative 1540 nm wavelength, followed by the ablative 10,600 nm wavelength, has enabled a six- to eightfold reduction in 10,600 nm laser power compared to previously published data, enhancing its safety profile while achieving promising outcomes in GSM. The mixed laser emerges as a safe, well tolerated, and effective alternative for treating GSM in patients unresponsive to conventional therapies, although the laserâ??s long-term effects remain uncertain.
Dr. J. Salinas Peña is a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus in Reus, Spain. With clinical expertise in womenâ??s health, maternal care, and gynecologic practice, Dr. Salinas Peña is dedicat ed to advancing evidence-based care and improving patient outcomes. Their work includes both clinical service and participation in academic or research initiatives within the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, supporting innovation in reproductive and maternal healthcare.