Bundang CHA Hospital Achieves 100 Cases of Radiation Therapy for Cesarean Section Scar Keloids

Professor Lee Ji-yeon, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bundang CHA Hospital.

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Bundang CHA Hospital announced on the 25th that it has achieved 100 cases of radiation therapy for keloid scars resulting from cesarean section surgeries.

Radiation therapy for keloid scars is mainly performed on mothers who have undergone cesarean sections. Professor Lee Ji-yeon of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Bundang CHA Hospital stated, "Although the incidence of keloid scars in mothers who have delivered via cesarean section is relatively low, around 10%, women with visible scars experience significant stress."

Cesarean section scars in women who have given birth typically fade or disappear naturally over time. However, if the scar persists for more than a year or becomes raised, it may be suspected as a keloid scar. Keloid scars are not only unsightly but can also cause itching or pain, which can reduce quality of life.

Bundang CHA Hospital conducts radiation therapy immediately after delivery to prevent keloid scar formation in mothers at high risk of developing keloids following cesarean delivery, through a collaborative approach between obstetrics and gynecologic oncology specialists. For pregnant women with keloid-prone skin who require cesarean surgery, the incision and suturing methods are selected according to the skin characteristics during surgery, and radiation therapy is administered postoperatively to prevent keloid scar formation.

The hospital explains that radiation is applied shallowly, about 1 cm deep from the skin surface, so it does not reach the abdomen, making it safe. It also penetrates deeply into the scar area, reducing the recurrence of keloids. During treatment, there is almost no pain on the skin, only a warm sensation, allowing the procedure to be performed immediately without anesthesia.

Professor Lee said, "Radiation therapy, which has the highest success rate among keloid treatments, is effective because it can be performed immediately after cesarean section without additional surgery, reducing the patient's burden in terms of procedure and cost." She added, "Since it is difficult to completely restore the skin to its previous condition once a keloid scar develops, timely management and prevention are most important."