真皮及脂肪穹隆结构与烧伤后增生性瘢痕形成关系的临床研究

目的　探讨烧伤后创面真皮组织缺损、脂肪穹隆结构破坏对增生性瘢痕形成的影响。方法　选择四肢部位需要削痂的深Ⅱ度烧伤患者 2 4例 ,共 5 4个创面。削痂术中根据创面真皮脂肪颗粒的暴露程度分为 3组 :脂肪不暴露为A组 ,脂肪暴露少为B组 ,脂肪暴露多为C组 ;再根据削痂后创面是否植皮又相应分组 :A组未植皮组、植刃厚皮组 ,B组未植皮组、植刃厚皮组 ,C组植刃厚皮组、植中厚皮组 ;每小组 9个创面。用KS4 0 0型图像分析仪测量各组患者的真皮厚度及脂肪颗粒暴露率 ;术后 6个月 ,用温哥华瘢痕评估量表评估患者瘢痕随访情况。　结果　各组患者的真皮厚度及脂肪暴露率比较 ,差异有显著性或非常显著性意义 (P <0.0 5或 0 .0 1 ) ;随着真皮缺损的增加 ,创面脂肪暴露率也相应增加 ,两者呈正相关 (γ =0.5 5 4,P <0.0 5)。A组瘢痕温哥华评分明显低于B、C组 (P<0.0 5 );B组未植皮组评分为 3.71 4± 0 .4 98,显著高于其他组 (P <0.0 1 );创面移植与缺损厚度近似的真皮 ,其瘢痕评分相应减少 ;随着脂肪暴露率增加 ,其瘢痕评分也增加 (P <0.0 5 )。　 结论　烧伤后 ,真皮组织缺损程度与增生性瘢痕的增生程度密切相关 ,而脂肪穹隆结构的破坏也是瘢痕形成过程中不容忽视的重要原因之一。     

Colour evaluation in scars: tristimulus colorimeter, narrow-band simple reflectance meter or subjective evaluation?

The evaluation of scar colour is, at present, usually limited to an assessment according to a scar assessment scale. Although useful, these assessment scales only evaluate subjectively the degree of scar colour. In this study, the reliability of the subjective assessment of scar colour by observers is compared to the reliability of the measurements of two objective colour measurement instruments. Four independent observers subjectively assessed the vascularisation and pigmentation of 49 scar areas in 20 patients. The degree of vascularisation and pigmentation was scored according to a scale ranging from '1', when it appeared to be like healthy skin, to '10', which corresponds to the worst imaginable outcome of vascularisation or pigmentation. The observers also scored the pigmentation categories of the scar (hypopigmention, hyperpigmention or mixed pigmentation). Finally, each observer measured the scar areas with a tristimulus colorimeter (Minolta Chromameter) and a narrow-band simple reflectance meter (DermaSpectrometer). A single observer could reliably carry out measurements of the DermaSpectrometer and the Minolta Chromameter for the evaluation of scar colour (r = 0.72). The vascularisation of scars could also be assessed reliably with a single observer (r = 0.76) whereas for a reliable assessment of pigmentation at least three observers were necessary (r > or = 0.77). The agreement between the observers for the pigmentation categories also turned out to be unacceptably low (k = 0.349). This study shows that an overall evaluation of scar colour with the DermaSpectrometer and the Minolta Chromameter is more reliable than the evaluation of scar colour with observers. Of both instruments for measuring scar colour, we prefer, because of its feasibility, the DermaSpectrometer.     

Patient-and observer-reported long-term scar quality of wide local excision scars in melanoma patients

Abstract

Wide local excision of the primary tumour is the mainstay of treatment for melanoma patients. The aims of this study were to assess the patient- and observer-reported long-term scar quality after surgery using the patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS) in melanoma patients, to assess the reliability and validity of POSAS, and to identify factors influencing the scar assessment. This cross-sectional clinical study included 320 melanoma patients with primary tumours on the trunk and limbs. Data regarding patients, treatment, scar characteristics and functional outcomes was analysed. Internal consistency, inter-rater reliability, and convergent validity were examined. Factors influencing the patient- and observer-reported scar quality were tested using regression analyses. Results of the POSAS showed an overall good scar quality. The internal consistency of POSAS was good, and the convergent validity was strong. The inter-rater reliability was only moderate. The patients were influenced by the POSAS sub-items: colour, irregularity, thickness and pain. The observer was influenced by the POSAS sub-items: vascularity, surface area, thickness, relief and pliability. Both patient- and observer-reported scar qualities were influenced by age, location, type of superficial suture, keloids and widened scars. Moreover, the patients were influenced by the scar tightness while the observer was influenced by postoperative complications, hypertrophic scars, suture marks and dog ears. In conclusion POSAS is a reliable and valid scar assessment tool. The factors influencing patient- and observer-reported scar quality differed, and better understanding of this may improve treatment and hence patient-reported scar quality.     

The safety and efficacy of intralesional triamcinolone acetonide for keloids and hypertrophic scars: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundTriamcinolone acetonide (TAC) is widely used for hypertrophic scars and keloids; however, TAC has variable efficacy and safety in different individuals.PurposeTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of intralesional TAC for treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids.Data sourcesSearches of PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov prior to 25 March 2020.Study selectionRandomized controlled trials in English that compared TAC with a placebo or other medications that are commonly used for intralesional injection in hypertrophic scars and keloids.Data extractionPrimary outcomes were reduction in scar height, vascularity, pliability, pigmentation, total scores on the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) or patient and observer scar assessment scale (POSAS), telangiectasia, and skin atrophy. Secondary outcomes included overall scar improvement.Data synthesisFifteen trials met the inclusion criteria. In the short term, TAC was associated with a significant improvement in vascularity (MD: −0.22, 95% CI: −0.42 to −0.02) and pliability (MD: −0.25, 95% CI: −0.44 to −0.06) compared to verapamil. In the medium term, compared to TAC, 5-FU showed a significant improvement in scar height (SMD: 0.95, 95% CI: 0.15–1.75), while TAC led to a significant improvement in vascularity compared to 5-FU (MD: −0.45, 95% CI: −0.76 to −0.14). Compared to TAC, TAC+5-FU showed a significant improvement in pliability (SMD: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.17–1.78) and pigmentation (MD: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.12–0.78). Botulinum toxin type A resulted in significantly better pliability (SMD: 1.99, 95% CI: 0.98–3.00) compared to TAC. In the long term, compared to TAC, 5-FU led to a significant improvement in scar height (MD: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.17–0.93), but significantly less vascularity (MD: −0.35, 95% CI: −0.65 to −0.05). Compared to TAC, TAC+5-FU produced a significant improvement in scar height (MD: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.12–1.88), pliability (MD: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.10–0.80), and pigmentation (MD: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.24–0.86).ConclusionTAC may be beneficial for the short-term treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids; however, 5-FU, 5-FU+TAC, and verapamil may produce superior results for medium- and long-term treatments. TAC injections at concentrations of 20 mg/ml or 40 mg/ml are more likely to result in skin atrophy compared to 5-FU or verapamil, and are more likely to cause telangiectasia than 5-FU, 5-FU+TAC, or bleomycin.     

Aesthetic improvements of radial forearm flap donor site by autologous fat transplantation

Despite its reliability, radial forearm (RF) flap is still affected by high donor site morbidity with poor cosmetic and functional outcomes after coverage with skin grafts. Having fat grafting demonstrated promising and effective filling and rejuvenating properties, we considered and tested it as a valuable alternative to dermal substitutes for the aesthetic improvement of RF flap donor site. Thirty-three patients with previous RF free flap reconstruction and poor donor site outcomes after full-thickness skin grafting to RF region were evaluated for secondary fat injection to improve outcomes. Objective and subjective assessments of results with standardized ultrasonographic soft tissue thickness measurements, cutaneous sensibility tests with the pressure-specified sensory device and scar assessment scale (POSAS) have been performed. Bivariate statistical analyses were performed comparing outcomes with contralateral healthy forearm. All cases showed significant improvement in soft tissue thickness (p< 0.031), cutaneous sensibility and scar appearance, with improved patient’s and observers’ scar assessment scores (<0.001). In conclusion, fat transplantation is an effective procedure that provided us with an adjunctive autologous layer in-between skin graft and underlying fascia, as well as a rejuvenating effect on skin and scars.     

Some problems following tangential excision and skin grafting in dermal burns

In the authors' opinion, primary tangential excision and skin grafting offers an excellent approach for the treatment of deep dermal and some subdermal burns by reducing the morbidity (i.e. reducing the incidence of hypertrophic and keloid scar formation). Some of the local problems associated could be eliminated by adequate precautions.     

Reliability of scar assessments performed with an integrated skin testing device – The DermaLab Combo®

BackgroundThe DermaLab Combo^® is a device with potential to make objective measurements of key scar components – pigmentation, vascularity, pliability and thickness. This study assessed the inter-rater and test–retest reliability of these measurements.MethodThree raters performed scar assessments on thirty patients with burn scars using the DermaLab Combo^®. Measurements of pigmentation, vascularity, pliability and thickness were made and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) were derived for inter-rater and test–retest reliability.ResultsInter-rater reliability was found to be “excellent” in the ‘best’ and ‘worst’ areas of the index scar and normal skin for pigmentation (ICC: 0.94–0.98) and thickness (ICC: 0.86–0.96). Test–retest reliability was also “excellent” for pigmentation (ICC: 0.87–0.89) and thickness (ICC: 0.92–0.97) in all areas. Vascularity showed “good” to “excellent” inter-rater reliability (ICC: 0.66–0.84) in all areas however test–retest reliability was “low” (ICC: 0.29–0.42). Test–retest reliability was “excellent” for pliability (ICC: 0.76–0.91). Technical limitations were encountered making measurements in some scars for thickness, and in particular, pliability.ConclusionThe DermaLab Combo^® measured pigmentation, thickness and pliability with “excellent” reliability. If future studies provide protocols to improve test–retest reliability of vascularity measurements and obtain pliability measurements more successfully, the DermaLab Combo^® will be valuable device for scar assessment.     

Gender differences in quality of life and psychological impact of facial burn scars in a tertiary care center

AimTo compare the quality of life and psychological impact of cases of facial burn scar between male and female patients.Study typeAn observational cross sectional study done in a tertiary care university level teaching hospital, on a hospital based sample over a period ranging from January 2018 to July 2019.MethodologyThe study was carried out on 32 patients of facial burn scar, who were screened for psychiatric diagnoses by MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview; severity of depression and anxiety assessed by HDRS and HAM A; assessed for QoL and scar ratings of both patient and observer. QoL was assessed using the WHO QOL BREF questionnaire. The scar assessment was done with the help of POSAS by interviewing the patient and examination of the scar.ResultsNone of other socio-demographic variables patient showed any significant association with the number of psychiatric diagnoses of the patient or QoL domains; barring years of schooling, which had a significant positive correlation with the psychological domain score of QoL. Being male or female also did not show any significant differences with the anxiety or depression severity. No burn or scar related variable could reach significant association, except scar itching, stiffness scores of POSAS P and overall scar opinion score of POSAS O, with the number of psychiatric diagnoses of the patient. Extent of scar had significant negative associations with the physical and psychological domains of QoL. Significant negative correlations were found between scar variables like stiffness, pigmentation, relief, pliability, and overall opinion and QoL domain scores. The total observer score of POSAS and the overall opinion of observer had much stronger negative correlation than the patient score; the latter having a significant association with the depression severity as well.ConclusionNo statistically significant gender difference in QoL and psychological impact of patients with facial burn scar were found. However educational level was found to positively influence the psychological well-being of the patients; whereas scar extent was found to negatively affect the physical and psychological domains of QoL.     

Skin elasticity meter or subjective evaluation in scars: a reliability assessment

Various methods are available for evaluating the elasticity of scars. However, the reliability and validity of these methods have been sparsely examined. The aim of this study was to examine the reliability of the subjective evaluation of scar pliability, while at the same time testing the reliability of the measurements of a non-invasive suction device (Cutometer Skin Elasticity Meter 575) on scars. Four observers assessed 49 scar areas of 20 patients with a subjective assessment of pliability. Subsequently, each observer measured the scar areas with the Cutometer. The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) of the elasticity (Ue) and extension (Uf) parameters of the Cutometer were acceptable (r = 0.76 and 0.74, respectively) when a single observer carried out the measurements. The subjective assessment of pliability needs to be completed by two or more observers to make the evaluation reliable (r = 0.79). The concurrent validities between the subjective pliability-assessment and each of the Cutometer parameters were statistically significant and ranged from r = 0.29-0.53. The correlations between each of the Cutometer parameters were high and statistically significant (r > or = 0.71). CONCLUSION: A single observer can reliably use the Cutometer for the elasticity measurements of scars. Furthermore, either Ue or Uf, instead of all five elasticity values provided by the Cutometer, can be adequately used for the elasticity measurements of scars. The subjective assessment of pliability of scars can only be assessed reliably when completed by two or more observers. The concurrent validity showed that all Cutometer parameters, except for visco-elasticity (Uv), and the subjective assessment of pliability measured the same characteristic of a scar.     

Objective scar assessment—A new method using standardized digital imaging and spectral modelling

Introduction

Quantitative assessment of scars is needed in clinical practice and in scientific studies. To date, there have been no entirely objective methods available for these purposes. We introduce a new method developed for scar assessment combining standardized digital imaging (SDI) and spectral modelling (SpM). With this method, the estimated concentration changes (ECCs) of haemoglobin and melanin in the scar can be determined quantitatively.

Patient and methods

: In the current study, 22 skin graft donor site (SGDS) wounds were treated with two alternative dressing materials, Suprathel^® and Mepilex Transfer^®, side by side on the same wound. The SGSD scars were assessed using SDI and SpM. The scars were given subjective ratings by three surgeons using the POSAS and the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS). The correlations between the ECCs of melanin and haemoglobin and the corresponding subjective ratings were calculated as well as the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) of the subjective ratings.

Results

There was a statistically significant correlation between the ECCs of melanin and haemoglobin and the subjective ratings. A single observer could reliably assess pigmentation with the POSAS scale (ICC = 0.75) but not vascularity (ICC = 0.51). The reliability ratings of the VSS were unacceptably low.

Conclusions

The ECC values of haemoglobin and melanin give accurate documentation of the scar status. The results also show that the subjective ratings in this study were unreliable especially when interfering pigmentation and increased vascularity were both present at the same time.     

Retrospective study of the application of acellular dermis in reconstructing full‐thickness skin defects

The purpose of the article is to evaluate the acellular dermis' utility in reconstructing full‐thickness defects after scar contracture releasing and giant nevus resection. From the year 2012 to 2014, 18 consecutive patients underwent composite graft (thin autograft and alloderma) transplantation. Among these patients, 16 patients suffered from burned scar contracture in the upper extremities, and two young cases were met with giant nevus on the upper extremity. Ten of 13 adult cases with upper extremity scar affection were chosen for a comparative study. Twenty hands were randomly allocated into group A and group B. The thick autograft was used to repair one upper extremity in group B, and the composite grafts were used to cover the other upper extremity in group A. Besides appraisal of the recipient sites' function and aesthetics, donor sites were also estimated after a mean of 12 months' follow‐up through the Vancouver Scar Score Scale. After evaluation in the above comparative study through the Vancouver Score Scale, in the recipient evaluation, no statistical difference was found in the pigmentation score between two groups, while statistical difference was achieved in other aspects (vascularity, pliability, height). In the donor site's evaluation, statistical difference was established between the two groups in all facets. One adult patient was dissatisfied with the hypertrophic scar on the donor site, and about almost a half of the area became a hypertrophic scar in the recipient site. No atrophic change occurred; one little girl, suffering from large nevus, was operated on by removing nearly the whole giant nevus on the upper limb. Unfortunately, she presented with finger tip necrosis occurring. The finger tip was not ultimately preserved and was repaired with an abdomen flap. Acellular dermal matrix is an excellent option and a useful tool for reconstructing large full‐thickness skin defects after releasing burned scar contracture and removing giant nevus. With thin‐skin graft meshed, a donor site's presentation brings courage to patients, while recipient sites can reach nearly the same elasticity and function compared to thick‐grafted skin.     

Course of scar quality of donor sites following split skin graft harvesting: Comparison between patients and observers

There exists little to no data on the development of donor‐site scars that remain after split skin graft harvesting. The objectives of this study were to (a) examine changes in characteristics of donor‐site scar quality over time and (b) assess the agreement between patient‐reported and observer‐reported donor‐site scar quality in a burn population. A prospective cohort study was conducted including patients who underwent split skin grafting for their burn injury. Patients and observers completed the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) for the first harvested donor site at 3 and 12 months post‐surgery. This study included 80 patients with a median age of 34 years. At 3 months post‐surgery, the patients scored the POSAS items itch and color as most deviant from normal skin, both improved between 3 and 12 months (3.1 vs 1.5 and 5.0 vs 3.5, respectively [P < .001]). Other scar characteristics did not show significant change over time. The patients' overall opinion score improved from 3.9 to 3.2 (P < .001). Observers rated the items vascularization and pigmentation most severe, only vascularization improved significantly between both time points. Their overall opinion score decreased from 2.7 to 2.3 (P < .001). The inter‐observer agreement between patients and observers was considered poor (ICC < 0.4) at both time points. Results of current study indicate that observers underestimate the impact of donor‐site scars. This has to be kept in mind while guiding therapy and expectations. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II, prospective cohort study.     

The surgical treatment of acute facial burns

Over a five-year period selected patients with acute facial burns have been treated with early excision and skin grafting. Guidelines on the experience gained are outlined. On admission a tentative diagnosis of the depth of the burn was made and saline dressings were applied. When the patient was considered to be out of immediate danger the wounds were re-examined under anaesthesia following surgical cleaning. Deep dermal and subdermal burns of the face in patients without potentially fatal injuries were tangentially excised (or were subjected to dermabrasion) and covered with skin grafts within the first three days. Deep dermal and subdermal burns combined with potentially fatal injuries were treated conservatively. Early excision and skin grafting performed under optimum conditions give excellent functional and good aesthetic results.     

The use of a polylactide‐based copolymer as a temporary skin substitute in deep dermal burns: 1‐year follow‐up results of a prospective clinical noninferiority trial

Deep dermal burns can be covered with different kind of materials and techniques; one of them is a polylactide‐based temporary skin substitute. The aim of this study was to intraindividually compare its 1‐year outcome with the results obtained by use of autologous skin grafts in patients suffering from deep dermal burns. A prospective noninferiority trial was designed in order to assess skin quality and scar formation by use of subjective (Vancouver Scar Scale; Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale) and objective (noninvasive cutometry) burn scar assessment tools. All items of the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, except vascularity, were found to be noninferior in the areas covered with the temporary skin substitute vs. autologous skin. Results of objective scar evaluation showed comparable viscoelastic parameters without reaching noninferiority. Overall, the outcome of deep dermal burns covered with a polylactide‐based temporary skin substitute revealed satisfactory results in terms of scar formation and skin quality as compared with autologous skin. This paper supports its use in deep dermal burns, where autologous skin donor sites require either to be reserved for coverage of full‐thickness skin defects in severe burns or to be saved for reduction of additional morbidity in selected patient collectives.     

含真皮下血管网真皮蒂鼻唇沟皮瓣修复鼻唇部缺损

目的探讨含真皮下血管网真皮蒂鼻唇沟皮瓣修复鼻唇部缺损的疗效。方法 2008年7月-2011年7月,应用含真皮下血管网真皮蒂鼻唇沟皮瓣修复鼻唇部缺损43例。男22例,女21例;年龄6～68岁,中位年龄36岁。缺损均为病变切除所致。其中黑色素痣23例,瘢痕16例,炎性肉芽肿4例;病程3个月～35年。病变部位:鼻尖11例,鼻翼10例,鼻翼、鼻尖10例,鼻翼沟8例,上唇4例。病变切除后缺损范围为0.7 cm×0.5 cm～1.2 cm×1.0 cm。皮瓣切取范围为1.0 cm×0.7 cm～1.5 cm×1.2 cm。结果术后皮瓣全部成活,创面Ⅰ期愈合;供区切口均Ⅰ期愈合。术后34例患者获随访,随访时间6～12个月,平均10个月。术后皮瓣色泽、弹性、质地与周围正常皮肤相似。供区无明显瘢痕。结论含真皮下血管网真皮蒂鼻唇沟皮瓣修复鼻唇部缺损具有皮瓣移位灵活、供区组织损伤小、术后皮下隧道臃肿发生率低等优点。     

The efficacy and safety of fractional CO2 laser therapy in the treatment of burn scars: A meta-analysis

Although we have numerous publications about the effect of fractional CO₂ laser therapy for burn scars, quantitative data about its efficacy and safety are sparse. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy and safety of fractional CO₂ laser therapy for the treatment of burn scars. Pertinent studies were identified by a search of PubMed, Embase and Web of Science up to 20 September 2020. Weighted mean difference (WMD) was conducted to combine the results, and a random-effect model was used to pool the results. Publication bias was estimated using Begg and Egger’s regression asymmetry test. Twenty articles were included. Our pooled results suggested that fractional CO₂ laser therapy significantly improved the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) score (WMD = −3.24, 95%CI: −4.30, −2.18; P < 0.001). Moreover, the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS)-patient (WMD = −14.05, 95%CI: −22.44, −5.65; P = 0.001) and Observer (WMD = −6.31, 95%CI: −8.48, −4.15; P < 0.001) also showed significant improvements with the treatment of fractional CO₂ laser therapy. Fractional CO₂ laser significantly reduced scar thickness measured with ultrasonography (WMD = −0.54, 95%CI: −0.97, −0.10; P < 0.001). For other outcomes, including pigmentation, vascularity, pliability, and height of scar, vascularity and relief, laser therapy was associated with significant improvements. However, only the cutometer measure R2 (scar elasticity) (WMD = −0.06, 95%CI: −0.10, −0.01; P = 0.023) was significantly improved with the laser therapy, but cutometer measures R0 (scar firmness) (WMD = 0.03, 95%CI: −0.04, 0.09; P = 0.482) was not. Side effects and complications induced by fractional CO₂ laser were mild and tolerable. Fractional CO₂ laser therapy significantly improved both the signs and symptoms of burn scars. Considering potential limitations, more large-scale, well-designed RCTs are needed to verify our findings.     

Hybrid double-dermal flap technique for vest-over-pants-closure correction of depressed abdominal scars

Surgical procedures performed during neonatal period or childhood that result in vertical midline, transverse left upper quadrant, or central upper abdominal scars create significant psychological concerns in adulthood. Various surgical techniques correct depressed scars, including scar revision, Z- or W-plasty flaps, sub-incision tunnelling, fat grafting, and autologous or alloplastic dermal grafting. This article describes a novel technique for repairing depressed abdominal scars using hybrid double-dermal flaps. We included patients with psychosocial concerns who underwent abdominal scar revision because of wedding plans. Hybrid local de-epithelised dermal flaps were used to correct the depression of the abdominal scar. Superior and inferior skin flaps, medial and lateral to the depressed scar, were de-epithelised for 2 to 3 cm and sutured using the vest-over-pants technique with 2/0 nylon permanent sutures. Six female patients who want to marry were included in this study. Depressed abdominal scars were successfully fixed using hybrid double-dermal flaps, either from the superior-inferior aspect for transverse scars or from the medial-lateral aspect for vertical scars. No postoperative complications were noted, and the patients were satisfied with the outcomes. De-epithelialised double-dermal flaps in the vest-over-pants technique are an effective and valuable surgical technique for correcting depressed scars.     

Ablative versus non-ablative treatment of perioral rhytides. A randomized controlled trial with long-term blinded clinical evaluations and non-invasive measurements

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To compare efficacy and side effects of CO(2) laser resurfacing and intense pulsed light (IPL) rejuvenation for treatment of perioral rhytides. METHODS: Twenty-seven female subjects with perioral rhytides (class I-III) were randomly treated with either CO(2) laser or IPL (three monthly treatments). Efficacy was evaluated by patient self-assessments and blinded photographs up to 12 months postoperatively. Side effects were assessed clinically. Non-invasive measurements included: trans epidermal water loss (TEWL), skin reflectance, skin elasticity, and ultrasound. RESULTS: CO(2) laser resurfacing resulted in higher degrees of patient satisfaction and clinical rhytide reduction compared to IPL rejuvenation up to 12 months postoperatively (patient evaluations, P < 0.05) (observer evaluations, P < 0.008). Laser-induced side effects included erythema, dyspigmentation, and milia whereas no side effects were observed after IPL rejuvenation. Non-invasive measurements showed a significant higher reduction of the subepidermal low-echogenic band in CO(2) laser treated areas versus IPL treated areas (12 months postoperatively, P < 0.001). Skin elasticity (expressed as Young's modulus) increased in both groups (P = ns). One month postoperatively a significant increase in TEWL values (P < 0.009) and skin redness% (P < 0.02) was found in CO(2) laser treated patients versus IPL treated patients. No significant differences were seen in skin pigmentation% during the observation period. CONCLUSION: CO(2) laser resurfacing induces a significantly higher degree of clinical rhytide reduction followed by considerably more side effects compared to IPL rejuvenation in a homogeneous group of patients.     

Sustainable effectiveness of single‐treatment autologous fat grafting in adherent scars

Following severe injury, not just the skin but also the subcutis may be destroyed. Consequently, the developing scar can become adherent to underlying structures. Reconstruction of the subcutis can be achieved by autologous fat grafting. Our aim was to evaluate the long‐term scar outcome after single‐treatment autologous fat grafting using a comprehensive scar evaluation protocol. Scar assessment was performed preoperatively in 40 patients. A 12‐month follow‐up assessment was performed in 36 patients, using the Cutometer, the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale, and DSM II ColorMeter. The Cutometer parameters elasticity and maximal extension improved with 28 and 22% (both p < 0.001), respectively. Nearly all scores of the scar assessment scale decreased significantly, which corresponds to improved scar quality. In addition, the mean melanin score was ameliorated over time. Thus, we demonstrated the sustainable effectiveness of single‐treatment autologous fat grafting in adherent scars, indicated by improved pliability, and overall scar quality.     

Ultrasound assessment of scald scars in Asian children receiving pressure garment therapy

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Scar formation after scald injury in children is managed commonly by application of pressure garment. The duration of the treatment depends on clinical assessment. The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of the pressure garment therapy and to correlate the clinical assessment scar thickness with ultrasound measurement. METHODS: Prospective study of children with hypertrophic scars receiving pressure garment therapy was carried out between 1993 and 1998. The scars were mapped with paper cutting. Representative scar sites were scored clinically according to Vancouver General Hospital Burn Assessment Scale (pigmentation, vascularity, pliability, height, pain, itchiness). Blind to the clinical results, 2 radiologists measured the scar thickness of the same sites with ultrasonography (5 to 10 MHz transducer, General Electric LOGIQ 500). The correlation between the clinical scores and ultrasound measurement of scar thickness were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). RESULTS: The median age of 58 children with scald injury (M:F = 36:22) was 2.8 years (0.5 to 15.8 years). The mean percentage of scald was 8.8% (24% had scald area >10%). In addition, there were 5 children with burn from naked flame and 9 children with keloid secondary to surgical incisions. With pressure garment therapy, the scar thickness reached a plateau 1 (1/2) years after the injury and began to decline gradually thereafter. The clinical estimation of scar thickness correlated well with the ultrasound measurement (ANOVA, P =.003, Adjusted R square = 0.99). The accuracy rate of clinical thickness estimation was 67%. Overestimation and underestimation accounted for 15% and 18%, respectively. There also was good correlation between total clinical score and the ultrasound measurement (ANOVA, P <.001). CONCLUSIONS: In children with scald injury, the pressure garment needs to be continued for a minimum of 1 year. Ultrasound measurement correlates well with overall score of the Vancouver General Hospital Burn Assessment Scale but not individual components of the scoring system except wound height.