Can cellulite be treated with low-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy?

Original Research

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Authors: Fiorenzo Angehrn, Christoph Kuhn, Axel Voss

Published Date January 2007 Volume 2007:2(4) Pages 623 - 630

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/CIA.S1721

Fiorenzo Angehrn¹, Christoph Kuhn¹, Axel Voss²

¹Klinik Piano, Gottstattstrasse 24, Biel, Switzerland; ²SwiTech Medical AG, Kreuzlingen, Switzerland

Abstract: The present study investigates the effects of low-energy defocused extracorporeal generated shock waves on collagen structure of cellulite afflicted skin. Cellulite measurement using high-resolution ultrasound technology was performed before and after low-energy defocused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in 21 female subjects. ESWT was applied onto the skin at the lateral thigh twice a week for a period of six weeks. Results provide evidence that low-energy defocused ESWT caused remodeling of the collagen within the dermis of the tested region. Improving device-parameters and therapy regimes will be essential for future development of a scientific based approach to cellulite treatment.

Keywords: cellulite (gynoid lipodystrophy), collagen structure of dermis, collagenometry high-resolution ultrasound of skin, low-energy defocused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), septa of subcutaneous connective tissue