Revision of a Widened Scar Using Dermal Splinting Technique.
10.14730/aaps.2015.21.2.75
- Author:
Sik NAMGOONG
1
;
Jae A JUNG
;
Deok Yeol KIM
;
Seong Ho JEONG
;
Seung Kyu HAN
;
Woo Kyung KIM
;
Eun Sang DHONG
Author Information
1. Department of Plastic Surgery, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. prsdhong@kumc.or.kr
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Cicatrix;
Sutures;
Cosmetic techniques
- MeSH:
Cicatrix*;
Cosmetic Techniques;
Extremities;
Follow-Up Studies;
Incidence;
Patient Satisfaction;
Splints*;
Sutures;
Torso;
Visual Analog Scale;
Wounds and Injuries
- From:Archives of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
2015;21(2):75-80
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Scar revision is a fundamental technique in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Methods using local flaps, such as a Z-plasty, W-plasty, or geometric broken-line closure, have been used for scar revision. Widening of scars is a frustrating event that most plastic surgeons have encountered. Several therapeutic modalities have been proposed, but frequently, the result is disappointing. We describe our experience with the use of a dermal splinting technique for scar revision. METHODS: We propose a technique by which tension on the wound is applied by tough scar tissue instead of the suture line, thereby reducing the incidence of postoperative widening. This technique was used to treat 21 nonburn scars that had widened:5 scars were facial (3 patients), 8 were on the extremities (6 patients), and 8 were on the torso (5 patients). All scars were at least 4 months old. The operations were performed between January 2003 and December 2012; follow-up was 9 to 24 months. RESULTS: Only one scar widened during the follow-up period. Overall, satisfaction with scar appearance and surgery was assessed with a visual analog scale (VAS). Mean patient satisfaction was 8.1 +/- 0.5. CONCLUSIONS: We recommend this technique in dealing with widened scars in highly tensile areas during revision surgery.
