Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 40

Injectable versus mono-thread PLLA for atrophic acne scars

Official title: Poly-L-Lactic Acid: A Comparative Study of Injectable and Thread-Based Delivery in Atrophic Acne Scars

Run by Zagazig University · NCT07523217 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This trial will try two ways of using poly-L-lactic acid—injectable injections versus mono-threads—to improve atrophic acne scars in adults.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
Enrollment52 (estimated)
SponsorZagazig University
Government
Locations1 site (Zagazig, Sharqia Province)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMarch 15, 2026
Main results expectedMarch 15, 2027
Study endsMarch 15, 2027
Registry record updatedSeptember 18, 2026
Trial IDNCT07523217 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Adults (≥18 years) with clinically diagnosed atrophic acne scars graded 2–4 who can attend Zagazig University Hospital and do not have active acne, recent scar treatment, pregnancy/lactation, bleeding disorders, keloid tendency, systemic wound-healing diseases, or known PLLA allergy are ideal candidates.

Probably not a fit

Patients with active inflammatory acne, a history of keloids, systemic conditions that impair wound healing, pregnancy or lactation, or known hypersensitivity to PLLA components are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

In a prospective split-face design, 24 adult patients with Goodman and Baron grade 2–4 atrophic acne scars received PLLA mono-threads on the right side (single session) and injectable PLLA on the left side (two sessions six weeks apart). Clinical outcomes, dermal remodeling, and safety were followed for three months using Goodman and Baron qualitative and quantitative grading systems. The study compares effects on scar appearance, collagen stimulation, and skin physiology between the two delivery modalities. Adverse events and tolerability were monitored for each side.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, one delivery method could offer better scar improvement or longer-lasting results with an acceptable safety profile, helping patients and clinicians choose the best option.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies show PLLA can stimulate neocollagenesis and improve atrophic acne scars, but direct head-to-head comparisons between injectable PLLA and mono-threads are limited.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* included adult patients (≥18 years) of both sexes presenting with clinically diagnosed atrophic acne scars (Grades 2-4 according to the Goodman and Baron classification)

Exclusion Criteria:

* active acne lesions, pregnancy or lactation, bleeding disorders, keloid tendency, systemic diseases affecting wound healing, recent acne scar treatment within the past six months, and known hypersensitivity to PLLA components.

Where it's running

  • Zagazig University Hospitals
    Zagazig, Sharqia Province, Egypt
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
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Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.