Analysis of modified ilib therapy in patients submitted to plastic surgery.

The sample comprised 44 volunteers who had undergone some surgical procedure and were equally divided into four groups. G1 started the therapy 24 h after the surgical procedure with the device off. G2 followed the same time pattern, 24 h, but with the device turned on. G3 and G4 started therapy three days after the surgical procedure; in G3, the device was turned off, and in G4, the device remained on during therapy; each session lasted 30 min, using 660 nm (red), energy 180 J. For all groups, the therapy started with daily use for seven days and followed the interval use of three times a week until completed 21 days. The revaluation was performed after 7 and 21 days. The results found show changes in HR at rest, systolic and diastolic BP, and in peripheral oxygen saturation, which showed a significant difference in the groups that used on-therapy (p < 0.05). In the MCGILL Scale evaluation, the mean total score showed a more accentuated drop in the groups that used ILIB, (p < 0.05). ILIB may have prevented a more significant evolution of firosis levels; however, no changes were observed in the evaluation of sleep and anxiety. The application of the ILIB in patients undergoing plastic surgery was supported in terms of hemodynamics and pain; in addition, starting the ILIB application 24 h after the procedure proved to be more advantageous.

Innovation of the protocol for the application of cryolipolysis: Effects and mechanisms of action.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, aesthetic procedures aiming at body remodeling and have grown exponentially. Cryolipolysis (CLL) has stood out as a noninvasive resource that acts directly on the subcutaneous adipose tissue promoting a significant reduction of adipose tissue through of cooling that could lead to the crystallization cytoplasmic lipids, loss of cellular integrity, apoptosis/necrosis of adipocytes, and local inflammation, producing selective loss of adipose tissue. Thus, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of a specific technique of CLL application on the inflammatory reactions of the target tissue in different post-application times. METHODS: This is a randomized, blind clinical study that evaluated the tissue sample of six patients after 45, 60, and 90 days of an innovative protocol for the application of CLL, with samples collected through abdominoplasty surgeries. The samples were evaluated by immunohistochemical analyses of several markers. RESULTS: A significantly greater increase in fibroblasts was observed at 45 days and greater phagocytic action at 60 days. Regarding the apoptosis process, the expression of caspase 3 and cleaved caspase 3 markers varied at different times, with cleaved caspase 3 being higher at 45 and 90 days after CLL application. CONCLUSION: The protocol of the CLL presented in this study was able to induce inflammatory responses in addition to confirming the selective apoptotic action at the different times studied.

Effects at cellular level of epilation with various laser wavelengths applied simultaneously on different skins: two case reports.

This study evaluated the effects of laser application of diverse wavelengths applied simultaneously and on different skins. The sample included two participants, a woman with light skin with abdominal hair and a woman with dark skin and hair on the inner part of the lower limbs, who received a laser therapy session. After 45 days from laser application, abdominoplasty and thigh dermolipectomy surgery were performed. In the control sample, the hair follicles were in the anagen phase, showing the presence of Bcl-2 expression. In the treated areas, follicles were observed in an advanced phase (telogen), with the presence of CK-18 and negativity of Bcl-2, highlighting the phase of hair loss at that moment and the complete apoptosis of the investigated follicle. Significant difference was observed in the comparison of the anagen phase (p = .00) and it similarly occurred in the comparison of the telogen phase (p = .00). The presence of a greater amount of follicles in the anagen phase in the control area and follicles in the telogen phase in the treated area demonstrates the efficiency of the laser at different wavelengths when reaching different skin phototypes and hair thickness, being reinforced by apoptosis and cell proliferation markers. Therefore, the hair-removal process has been optimized with various laser wavelengths.

Effectiveness of Light-Emitting Diode Epilation on Different Skin Types: A Pilot Study.

Objective: This study analyzed the histological and immunohistochemical changes in hair follicles submitted to epilation with light-emitting diode (LED). Background: The use of specific wavelengths of LED leads to the absorption of photons by chromophore tissues, enabling different photophysical and photochemical events, bringing therapeutic benefits such as removing body hair. Methods: The sample included five participants, with phototypes II-V, divided into two groups. The volunteers received a session of epilation with the Holonyak® device on the pubic region and right groin, whereas the contralateral side was kept as a control. An energy of 10 J and a cooling temperature of -5°C were used, after which the pain provoked by the equipment was questioned using the analogue pain scale. After 45 days, the punching procedure was performed in the region where skin samples were taken for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Results: For all phototypes, in the treated area, the follicles and sebaceous glands were in a stage of involution, showing perifollicular inflammatory infiltrate with changes suggestive of apoptosis. The apoptosis process was confirmed by the increase in markers cytokeratin-18 and cleaved caspase 3, in addition to the reduced expression of Blc-2, and the lower cell proliferation (Ki67), reinforcing the action of LED based on the definite involution and resorption of the follicle, through macrophages (CD68) triggered by the inflammatory process. Conclusions: The preliminary results of this study found relevant histological changes and immunohistochemical markers in the epilation process, which may indicate the efficacy of LED in permanent hair removal.

Use of Stationary Ultrasound Device In Subcutaneous Abdominal Fat Tissue: Analysis of Clinical Effects.

Background: High-intensity stationary therapeutic ultrasound (HITU) technology is gaining popularity as an attractive modality for treating different conditions, but little is known about its application in aesthetics. Objective: To analyze the effects of stationary unfocused ultrasound (HITU technology) in treating localized fat in women's abdominal region. Methods: The sample consisted of 43 women with localized abdominal adiposity, assessed pre and post-treatment by assessment protocols, adversity analysis questionnaires, ultrasound exams, and serum level exams. The volunteers were randomly divided into three subgroups: G-1, who used the device off, G-2 received therapy with the device once a week for two months (Parameters: Pulsed - 100Hz - 50% - 4.0 W/cm2 - 20 minutes) and the G-3 who used the device on twice a week for a month (Parameters: Pulsed - 100Hz - 50% - 3.2W/cm2 - 30 minutes). All groups received eight sessions in total. Results: There was a significant reduction for G-3 in the plicometry of the lower right region (p=0.01) in the comparison between the final and initial moments. In the comparison among the three research groups, there was a significant reduction in plicometry in the lower right (p=0.03) and left (p=0.02) regions in G3. Via ultrasound, a reduction in the fat layers average was observed in all groups. In G-3, there were significant differences in the left infraumbilical region (p=0.02) and right (p=0.04). In the group comparison, the right infraumbilical region showed significant differences (p=0.04) for the G-3. No differences were found for weight, BMI, body fat percentage and supra, infra and umbilical perimetry (p>0.05). The adverse reactions reported were: Mild hyperaemia (75%) and sensation of shock (21%), there were also reports of improvement in fluid retention in 93.7 percent of the volunteers, and most were satisfied with the result. Conclusion: Both treatment protocols for the reduction of localized adiposity were effective compared to the placebo group, with a significant reduction in the use of ultrasound and plicometry in the concentration of fat in the lower abdominal region.

Comparative effects of fractional radiofrequency and microneedling on the genitalia of postmenopausal women: Histological and clinical changes.

OBJECTIVES: The authors aimed to evaluate clinical and histological changes induced by Fractional Radiofrequency (FRF) and microneedling in vulvar tissue. METHODS: Thirty postmenopausal women were randomly divided into G1 (FRF) and G2 (microneedling) groups. Sub-ablative FRF was executed using disposable fractionated electrodes with an intensity of 8 mJ. Microneedling was performed using a derma roller system. The authors evaluated before and after treatment using the Vaginal Laxity Questionnaire (VLQ), EuroQol Five-Dimensional (EQ-5D) questionnaire, and the Blatt and Kupperman Menopausal Index (BKMI). Additionally, the authors performed biopsies of the labia majora for histological analysis pre- and post-treatment. Data were expressed as mean (± standard deviation). A paired t-test was used for intra-group comparison (pre- and post-treatment), with an independent t-test used to compare intergroup data (both pre- and post-treatment). RESULTS: In the G1 group, the VLQ values showed differences compared to the pre-treatment values with the data obtained 60 days after the beginning of the sessions (p = 0.01). Similarly, the data changes of the G2 group proved to be significant (p = 0.001) across the same time interval. In comparing the groups, VLQ values were not different (p > 0.05). Regarding histological analysis, FRF demonstrated improvement concerning the number of fibroblasts, blood vessels, and fatty degeneration (p < 0.05) compared to the control. Additionally, FRF and microneedling samples showed higher type III collagen and vimentin expression in the immunohistochemical analysis (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The therapies were found to be effective in treating the flaccidity of the female external genitalia. Additionally, histological changes were observed after interventions suggesting collagen remodeling.

Does COVID-19 infection increase the risk of pressure injury in critically ill patients?: A narrative review.

ABSTRACT: Patients with severe COVID-19 may have endothelial dysfunction and a hypercoagulable state that can cause skin damage. In the presence of external pressure on the tissues, the local inflammatory process regulated by inflammatory cytokines can increase and prolong itself, contributing to the formation of pressure injury (PI). PI is defined as localized damage to the skin or underlying tissues. It usually occurs as a result of intense and/or prolonged pressure in combination with shear. The aim of the study is to perform a narrative review on the physiological evidence of increased risk in the development of PI in critically ill patients with COVID-19.In patients with severe COVID-19 a pattern of tissue damage consistent with complement-mediated microvascular injury was found in the lungs and skin of critically ill COVID-19 patients, suggesting sustained systemic activation of complement pathways. Theoretically, the same thrombogenic vascular changes related to COVID-19 that occur in the skin also occur in the underlying tissues, making patients less tolerant to the harmful effects of pressure and shear. Unlike the syndromes typical of acute respiratory illnesses and other pathologies that commonly lead to intensive care unit admission, COVID-19 and systemic viral spread show that local and systemic factors overlap. This fact may be justified by current epidemiological data showing that the prevalence of PI among intensive care unit patients with COVID-19 was 3 times higher than in those without COVID-19. This narrative review presents physiological evidence to suggesting an increased risk of developing PI in critically ill patients with COVID-19.

Effects of Ultracavitation and Radiofrequency on Abdominal Adiposity.

Background: The mechanism of fat reduction from radiofrequency occurs via the thermal stimulation of adipocyte metabolism, causing a lipase-mediated triglyceride enzyme degradation, apoptosis, and adipocyte rupture. Ultracavitation promotes fat reduction using adipose cell destruction through mechanical stimulus. The literature on the combination of these two physical agents, named ultrafrequency, is still scarce and requires consistent analysis of the effects of this therapy combination. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of radiofrequency associated with ultracavitation in the treatment of abdominal subcutaneous tissue of women. Methods: This was a prospective, randomized clinical trial in which 45 participants were divided into three distinct groups: the control group (no treatment); ultracavitation group; and ultracavitation and radiofrequency (UCV+RF) group, each with 15 volunteers. The following variables were evaluated: weight, perimetry, plicometry, ultrasonography, treatment reactions, and patient satisfaction. Results: The participants in the UCV+RF group presented a more significant decrease in adipose tissue, which was verified through all the evaluation methods. Conclusion: Based on our results, the simultaneous application of ultracavitation and radiofrequency generated a reduction in localized adiposity superior to the isolated use of ultracavitation.

Comparative effects of fractional radiofrequency and microneedling on the genitalia of postmenopausal women: Histological and clinical changes

Abstract Objectives: The authors aimed to evaluate clinical and histological changes induced by Fractional Radiofrequency (FRF) and microneedling in vulvar tissue. Methods: Thirty postmenopausal women were randomly divided into G1 (FRF) and G2 (microneedling) groups. Sub-ablative FRF was executed using disposable fractionated electrodes with an intensity of 8 mJ. Microneedling was performed using a derma roller system. The authors evaluated before and after treatment using the Vaginal Laxity Questionnaire (VLQ), EuroQol Five-Dimensional (EQ-5D) questionnaire, and the Blatt and Kupperman Menopausal Index (BKMI). Additionally, the authors performed biopsies of the labia majora for histological analysis pre- and post-treatment. Data were expressed as mean (± standard deviation). A paired t-test was used for intra-group comparison (pre- and post-treatment), with an independent t-test used to compare intergroup data (both pre- and post-treatment). Results: In the G1 group, the VLQ values showed differences compared to the pre-treatment values with the data obtained 60 days after the beginning of the sessions (p = 0.01). Similarly, the data changes of the G2 group proved to be significant (p = 0.001) across the same time interval. In comparing the groups, VLQ values were not different (p > 0.05). Regarding histological analysis, FRF demonstrated improvement concerning the number of fibroblasts, blood vessels, and fatty degeneration (p < 0.05) compared to the control. Additionally, FRF and microneedling samples showed higher type III collagen and vimentin expression in the immunohistochemical analysis (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The therapies were found to be effective in treating the flaccidity of the female external genitalia. Additionally, histological changes were observed after interventions suggesting collagen remodeling.

Analysis of immediate use of sunscreen after microneedling.

INTRODUCTION: Microneedling promotes skin microlesions that lead to an inflammatory process, increasing cell proliferation, cell metabolism, and synthesis of collagen and elastin, therefore restoring skin integrity. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the differences between the physical and the physical-chemical sunscreen application after microneedling, assessed through histological analysis. METHOD: This was a two-phase study. The first phase investigated the physical and physical-chemical sunscreen penetration mixed with India ink through histological analysis. The sunscreens were applied after the microleakage in vivo on the skin of a volunteer who underwent abdominoplasty 24 hours after the procedure. Histological analyses were carried out using optical and electron microscopy. The second phase analysed the skin reactions with the use of physical sunscreen after different microneedling treatments. The sample consisted of 30 volunteers distributed into three groups: G1 received the "Roller" microneedling, G2 received pen micropuncture treatment, and G3 received the fractional radiofrequency treatment. RESULTS: The histological analyses of the first phase indicated that the physical-chemical protection sunscreen penetrated more deeply, and pigment was found among the collagen fibres and the dermal fibroblast cytoplasm in comparison to the physical protection sunscreen, which had the pigment confined exclusively in the superficial epidermis layer. The second phase results demonstrated that the use of the physical protection sunscreen after the different microneedling techniques showed no adverse reactions such as itching, pain or soreness, and the hyperaemia. CONCLUSION: The proposed intervention showed that the use of physical protection sunscreen after different microneedling procedures is safe.

Hepathic, biochemical, hematological, and histological effects of the ultracavitation in rabbits livers.

PURPOSE: To collect data capable of pointing out the effects of the ultracavitation treatment on the liver of rabbits after adipose tissue application, by means of histological analyses of the liver and hematological and biochemical exams. METHODS: This is an experimental study with 12 albino rabbits as sample, which were divided into 3 groups and submitted to a hypercaloric diet for one month. Subsequently, subjects underwent UCV treatment: 3 minutes, 30 W, continuous mode at 100%, every 2 ERAS = 441.02 J/cm2, intensity of 10w/cm2. They were then euthanized and underwent biopsy after 24 hours. RESULTS: After 48 hours from the ultracavitation treatment, the animals' livers presented greater amount of fat infiltration if compared to the amount presented 96 hours after the treatment. However, laboratory tests showed no alterations. Values were maintained within normal parameters of cholesterol, triglycerides, liver enzymes, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. CONCLUSIONS: This study has identified that infiltrates may appear on livers after the treatment, despite high hematological and biochemical tests results. The fat infiltrates reduction 96 h after treatment suggests lower risks to animal health, if the period between applications is respected.

Efeitos da terapia combinada na adiposidade localizada: estudo experimental / Effects of combined therapy in located adiposity: experimental study

Introdução: As associações de Terapias Combinadas de Ultrassom e Eletroterapia (TCUE) no mercado nacional podem ser utilizadas através de diferentes equipamentos. Na prática clínica tem-se relatado que o uso das TCUE tem eficácia no tratamento da adiposidade localizada. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos da terapia combinada (TCUE) no tratamento da adiposidade localizada. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo experimental, composto por uma amostra de 15 coelhos, de ambos os sexos, da espécie Oryctolagus Cuniculus, divididos aleatoriamente em três grupos: G1- grupo TCUE-M que utilizou efeitos do ultrassom com aplicação de correntes estereodinâmicas (n = 5); G2- grupo TCUE -H que utilizou uma combinação de ultrassom e corrente Aussie (n = 5) e G3- controle (n = 5) nenhuma terapia. Resultados: As análises dos resultados revelaram pequenas alterações na camada adiposa na maioria dos coelhos integrantes dos grupos tratados. Conclusão: A análise das lâminas histológicas apresentou irregularidades na membrana celular adiposa mostrando diferentes tamanhos de células. (AU)

Introduction: Associations of Combined Ultrasound Therapy and Electrotherapy (TCUE) can be used in the domestic market through different equipment. Some authors report that the use of TCUE has efficacy in the treatment of localized adiposity. Objective: To evaluate the effects of combined therapy (TCUE) in the treatment of localized adiposity. Methods: This is an experimental study consisting of a sample of 15 rabbits of both sexes of the species Oryctolagus Cuniculus, randomly divided into three groups: G1- TCUE-M group that used ultrasound effects with the application of stereodynamic currents (n = 5); G2-TCUE-H group that used a combination of ultrasound and current Aussie (n = 5) and G3-control (n = 5) no therapy. Results: Analyzes of the results revealed small alterations in the adipose layer in most of the rabbits in the treated groups. Conclusion: Analysis of the histological slides presented irregularities in the adipose cell membrane showing different cell sizes. (AU)

Hepathic, biochemical, hematological, and histological effects of the ultracavitation in rabbits livers

Abstract Purpose To collect data capable of pointing out the effects of the ultracavitation treatment on the liver of rabbits after adipose tissue application, by means of histological analyses of the liver and hematological and biochemical exams. Methods This is an experimental study with 12 albino rabbits as sample, which were divided into 3 groups and submitted to a hypercaloric diet for one month. Subsequently, subjects underwent UCV treatment: 3 minutes, 30 W, continuous mode at 100%, every 2 ERAS = 441.02 J/cm2, intensity of 10w/cm2. They were then euthanized and underwent biopsy after 24 hours. Results After 48 hours from the ultracavitation treatment, the animals' livers presented greater amount of fat infiltration if compared to the amount presented 96 hours after the treatment. However, laboratory tests showed no alterations. Values were maintained within normal parameters of cholesterol, triglycerides, liver enzymes, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Conclusions This study has identified that infiltrates may appear on livers after the treatment, despite high hematological and biochemical tests results. The fat infiltrates reduction 96 h after treatment suggests lower risks to animal health, if the period between applications is respected.

Effects of the extracorporeal shock wave therapy on the skin: an experimental study.

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been extensively studied for its multiple biological properties, and although it is widely applied in esthetical procedures, little is known about its effects on the epidermis and dermis. In this study, a histological and immunohistochemical study of the effects of ESWT was performed on rat skin. Forty-five female rats were treated with one or two sessions of ESWT and sacrificed on days 1, 7, 14, and 21 after treatment. The samples were histologically processed and then morphometric analyses were performed to assess the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous fat tissue thickness. Immunohistochemical reactions were also performed against the antibodies: basic fibroblastic growth factor (FGF2), its receptor (FGFR1), and α-smooth muscle actin. Slides were scanned and digitally assessed, to determine the microvessel density (MVD) and digital scoring of the immunohistochemical staining. The results showed that ESWT produced a significantly higher collagen content, MVD, and epidermis and dermis thickness than the control, non-treated group. Both in epidermis and dermis, FGF2 was overexpressed in the ESWT-treated groups, whereas FGFR1 was increased only in the group treated with two ESWT sessions at 21-days post-treatment. The ESWT-treated groups have also shown diminished thickness of subcutaneous fat tissue. In conclusion, ESWT induces neocollagenesis and neoangiogenesis, and upregulates the FGF2 expression, particularly in the groups treated with two sessions. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that overexpression of FGF2 on skins treated with ESWT seems to be a key role on its mechanism of action.

Cryolipolysis: patient selection and special considerations.

Cryolipolysis is considered a safe and effective procedure, with high patient satisfaction rates, especially when compared to other procedures for localized adiposity, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound and shock waves. Although this statement is present in the literature, the importance of the selection of suitable patients for this type of treatment is not well known. The objective of this study was to discuss the criteria to be considered in the selection of patients who are candidates for cryolipolysis and assess their profile regarding their anthropometric data, age, skin characteristics, cutaneous sensitivity, and risk pathologies for this type of treatment. Assessing the amount of localized adiposity requires safe and validated methods that are significant in measuring results. The aim is to achieve success in the process of reducing adiposity guaranteeing patient satisfaction and assurance of results.

Effects of contrast cryolipolysis on flank region adiposity: Case study.

BACKGROUND: The Contrast Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive technique that aims to reduce localized adiposity with its heating-cooling-heating method, resulting in a 45% fat loss in the treated area, with no damage to the skin. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of contrast cryolipolysis compared to conventional cryolipolysis on localized adiposity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a case study was carried out with two volunteers. The cirtometry, ultrasonography, and the anthropometric characteristics' analyses of volunteers were performed before and after the intervention. The right flank region underwent conventional cryolipolysis, and the left flank underwent contrast cryolipolysis. RESULTS: The procedures performed in both volunteers had positive results. However, the use of Contrast Cryolipolysis promoted greater loss of adipose tissue, reducing perimetry and cirtometry measurements, as well as the adipose tissue thickness, acknowledged via ultrasonography. CONCLUSION: The contrast cryolipolysis promotes greater localized adiposity reduction than the conventional cryolipolysis.

Efeitos do ultrassom de alta potência (ultracavitação) em seroma encapsulado / Effects of high-power ultrasound (ultracavitation) on encapsulated seroma

Introdução: O seroma consiste em uma coleção líquida de características exudativas geralmente formado logo após cirurgias plásticas, devido ao espaço morto e acúmulo de líquido na região submetida ao procedimento cirúrgico. A alta concentração de energia fornecida pela ultracavitação favorece uma ruptura dos envoltórios de fibrose na região do seroma, bem como promovem a absorção e emulsão do líquido existente. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos da ultracavitação em pacientes com seroma encapsulado. Material e métodos: Trata-se de um estudo quase experimental. Cinco voluntários com diagnóstico de seroma foram submetidos ao tratamento de ultracavitação durante 7,5 minutos por ERA, potência de 30 Watts, 50% da potência emitida. A avaliação foi realizada através do exame de ultrassonografia, realizado antes e após o tratamento. Foram realizadas quatro sessões, sendo uma por semana. Resultados: Em todos os pacientes deste estudo foi verificada qualitativamente e quantitativamente uma redução do seroma encapsulado após o tratamento com a ultracavitação. Conclusão: A ultracavitação diminuiu as áreas de seroma encapsulado, constituindo uma possibilidade de tratamento não invasivo.(AU)

Introduction: Seroma consists of a net collection of exudative features usually formed soon after plastic surgeries, due to the dead space and the accumulation of fluid in the region submitted to the surgical procedure. The high concentration of energy provided by ultracavitation favors a rupture of the fibrous sheaths in the seroma region, as well as promotes the absorption and emulsion of the existing liquid. Objective: To evaluate the effects of ultracavitation in patients with encapsulated seroma. Methods: This is a quasi-experimental study. Five volunteers diagnosed with seroma were submitted to ultracavitation for 7.5 minutes per ARR, 30 Watts power, 50% of emitted power. The evaluation was performed through ultrasonography (US), performed before and after treatment. Four sessions were held, one per week. Results: A reduction of the encapsulated seroma after treatment with ultracavitation was verified qualitatively and quantitatively in all patients in this study. Conclusion: Ultracavitation reduced the areas of encapsulated seroma, constituting a possibility of non-invasive treatment. (AU)

Radiofrequency treatment induces fibroblast growth factor 2 expression and subsequently promotes neocollagenesis and neoangiogenesis in the skin tissue.

Radiofrequency (RF) treatment appears to be involved in production of new collagen fibrils and the improvement of existing collagen structures; however, the molecular bases of the effect of non-invasive RF on the skin tissue have not been fully elucidated. This study reports the effects of RF associated or not with hydrolyzed collagen (HC) in the skin tissue. Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups, according to the treatment received: control group (G1, n = 5), no treatment; subjects in group G2 (n = 5) were treated with HC; and capacitive RF was applied to the back of each subject in G3 (n = 5) and RF associated with HC in G4 (n = 5). Biopsies were taken 30 days after treatment and then were histologically processed and studied for inflammatory cell counting, collagen content, and morphometry. In addition, FGF2, CD105, and COX-2 expression was assessed by immunohistochemical staining. The most relevant changes were the increase in cellularity and accumulation of intercellular substance in RF-treated animals (G3 and G4). The greatest dermis thickness rate was observed in G4, followed by G3 and G2 (p < 0.05). RF-treated skins (G3 and G4) exhibited a significant overexpression of FGF2 (p < 0.0001) and increased microvessel density (p < 0.0001) in comparison with G1 and G2. Moreover, the amount of COX-2 was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) in dermis of RF-treated areas compared to G1 and G2, and demonstrated differences in G3 (RF) compared to G4 (RF + HC) (p < 0.0001). Our results suggests that RF treatment associated or not with HC induces FGF2 overexpression, promotes neoangiogenesis and modulates the COX-2 expression, subsequently promotes neocollagenesis, and increased thickness rate of dermis.

Efeitos da radiofrequência no rejuvenescimento facial: estudo experimental / Effects of radiofrequency in facial rejuvenation

Introdução: A radiofrequência é um recurso que têm sido frequentemente utilizados na prática clínica para o tratamento da flacidez facial e aparecimento de rugas. Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos da radiofrequência no rejuvenescimento facial. Métodos: Trata-se de um ensaio clínico controlado. A amostra foi composta por 40 voluntárias do sexo feminino, com a faixa etária entre 35 a 55 anos, dispostos em 02 grupos, sendo grupo controle e grupo tratado com radiofrequência. Resultados: Nos valores individuais das medidas do ângulo do sulco nasogeniano é possível verificar um aumento e consequente melhora da qualitativa da flacidez facial. Conclusão: A radiofrequência promoveu uma melhora clínica ao nível do ângulo do sulco nasogeniano. (AU)

Introduction: Radiofrequency is a feature that has been frequently used in clinical practice for the treatment of facial flaccidity and appearance of wrinkles. Objective: To investigate the effects of radiofrequency on facial rejuvenation. Methods: This is a controlled clinical trial. The sample consisted of 40 female volunteers, with the age group between 35 and 55 years, arranged in 02 groups, being the control group and the group treated with radiofrequency. The control conducted 2 months of guidance on skin care and exercises for facial flaccidity. Results: Increase quality improvement of facial flaccidity In the treated group, but statistically there was no result in the comparison between groups. Conclusion: In the qualitative analysis, it was verified that the radiofrequency promoted a clinical improvement at the angle of the nasogenian sulcus. (AU)

Effects of Cryolipolysis on Abdominal Adiposity.

Cryolipolysis is a noninvasive technique of localized fat reduction. Controlled cold exposure is performed in the selective destruction of fat cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of cryolipolysis on adipocytes elimination through histological and sonographic analyses. This study reports the case of a 46-year-old female patient, with complaint of localized abdominal fat and in the preoperative period of abdominoplasty. The patient was submitted to a single 60-minute application of cryolipolysis, temperature of -5°C, on the hypogastrium area, 5 cm below the umbilicus. To study the effects of this treatment, ultrasound images taken before the session and 7, 15, 30, and 45 days after the therapy were analysed. After the abdominoplasty, parts of the treated and the untreated withdrawn abdominal tissues were evaluated macro- and microscopically. In ultrasound images, as well as in macroscopic and histological analyses, significant adipocytes destruction was detected, with consequent fat layer reduction and integrity of areas that were adjacent to the treated tissue. The presence of fibrosis observed during therapy and acknowledged through performed analyses encourages further studies to clarify such finding.