Compression treatment of hypertrophic scars in burned children.
The formation of hypertrophic scars is common following healing of the burn wound, particularly in children. The control of scar formation is an important part of overall treatment in these cases and this paper describes a newer method that applies compression to the burn scar in an attempt to improve the ultimate appearance. The 35 patients treated by this method included some with partial-thickness and others with full-thickness burns. The results of treatment with compression garments were assessed at 6 months and at 12 months, using a grading system based on colour, consistency and thickness of the scar. The design of facial moulages and their use in compression of facial scars are dealt with. Overall there was a 75% to 80% improvement in the state of burn scars. The reasons for this improvement are discussed.
D000293:Adolescent; D002056:Burns / Q000150:complications*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006984:Hypertrophy; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008397:Masks; D009779:Occlusive Dressings; D011312:Pressure