A 50% to 80% recurrence rate of earlobe keloids can occur following a simple excision. Many modalities, including radiotherapy, have been suggested to reduce the postoperation recurrence.The aim of the present study was to determine the efficacy of postoperative radiotherapy by a high dose rate Iridium 192 mould in the prevention of earlobe keloids recurrence.Between March 1999 and March 2003, 22 patients with 24 earlobe keloids were treated by radiotherapy immediately following surgical excision. A dose of 15 Gray in 3 fractions was delivered at a point placed 5 mm from the axis of the Iridium sources.From the 22 patients with 24 keloids who were treated, 15 patients with 16 keloids were followed for a minimum of 6 months. Recurrence occurred in two keloids (12.5%). There were no severe adverse effects.Postoperative radiotherapy by high dose rate Iridium 192 mould was an effective prevention of earlobe keloids recurrence. It was well tolerated and did not present any significant side effects.
