Microneedling in Mature Burn Scars
Abstract
Background:Thermalinjuries can lead to severe hypertrophic scarring and be psychologically devastating for patients. Patients often seek help to improve aesthetic appearance and function of hypertrophic scars and contractures. This study aims to share our experience with microneedling also called “percutaneous collagen induction” of mature hypertrophic scars from thermal injuries in all ages. Patients and method:This prospective study includes patients of all age groups, deemed suitable for treatment of mature hypertrophic scars. Patients were excluded if they had skin infections, unrealistic outcome expectations or immature scarring. Suitable patients were instructed in pre-and post-operative treatment with vitamin A and use of microneedling (Dermaroller®). Surgeries were performed under General Anesthesia. Patients were assessed in outpatient clinics post-operatively and offered further treatment if necessary. After completed treatment self-assessment forms were filled out by the patients. Results:19 patients (F:M 12:7), age 4-82 years (median 18,5). Burn mechanism was mainly flash burns or scalding. Interval from time of injury to treatment varied from 10 months –17 years. Interval from time of treatment to evaluation ranged from 2,5 weeks -7 months. 14 patients reported an overall improvement on the self-assessment scale. 12 patients reported improvement in thickness, irregularity and colour, 10 patients in elasticity, 7 patients in pain and 8 in pruritus. 8 patients would recommend treatment to others. 13 patients reported post-operative discomfort (itching, erythema, swelling). Majority of these adverse effects resided within 3 weeks. Conclusion:Wecan conclude that microneedling is a safe treatment for patients suffering scarring following thermal injuries. Results may vary but no harmful side effects were recorded. Further studies are needed to improve objective outcome measurements, as this proved to be the most challenging factor in the study.