Radical treatment of axillary osmidrosis using the VERSAJET™ II Hydrosurgery System or traditional open excision: A prospective cohort study

Background Axillary osmidrosis, characterized by an unpleasant odor, renders social life difficult for young adults. This study aimed to compare traditional open excision and use of the VERSAJET (TM) II Hydrosurgery System for effectiveness and treatment complaints in the treatment of axillary osmidrosis. Aim The current study aimed to assess the curative effect of VERSAJET (TM) for axillary osmidrosis in a prospective cohort study, comparatively to traditional open excision. Method In this prospective cohort study, from October 2016 to March 2018, 31 and 34 patients treated with the VERSAJET (TM) II Hydrosurgery System and traditional open excision, respectively, were recruited and followed up for 6 months post-treatment. Treatment outcomes were assessed, including surgical field size, operation time, postoperative complications, odor elimination, hair growth reduction, scarring, and patient satisfaction. Results The VERSAJET (TM) group had significantly shorter operation (P < .001) and lower rates of complications, including hematoma (P = .014), wound dehiscence (P = .048), and epidermal erosion (P = .022) compared with the open excision group. A similar rate of good odor elimination (P = .925) was observed in both groups (96.77% and 97.05% in the VERSAJET (TM) and open excision groups, respectively). Most patients experienced sparsity of armpit hair following both procedures. Based on a comprehensive consideration of the whole operation process, recovery process, postoperative odor and scar, patients in the VERSAJET (TM) group were more satisfied compared with those in the open excision group (P = .008). Conclusion The VERSAJET (TM) II procedure is shorter, with less postoperative scarring and fewer postoperative complications, compared with the traditional method. Therefore, the VERSAJET (TM) II procedure is superior to traditional open excision, as a new, radical treatment method for axillary osmidrosis.