The efficacy of topical silicone gel elastomers in the treatment of hypertrophic scars, keloid scars, and post-laser exfoliation erythema.
BACKGROUND
Dermatix is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-registered substantial equivalent to silicone gel sheeting for the prevention and management of hypertrophic scars and keloids.


METHODS
A 90-day prospective study evaluated the efficacy of Dermatix, silicone gel sheeting, and a combination of these treatments in improving scars for 30 patients. Each patient had a bilateral scar that served as an untreated control. The outcome measures included profilometry analysis of scar topography before and after punch biopsies of the control and treated scars, symptoms associated with the scars, and patient evaluations of the ease of treatment.


RESULTS
The results showed better resolution and improvement of scars with Dermatix treatment or the combined use of Dermatix and silicone gel sheeting than with silicone gel sheeting alone. Wound erythema was reduced, and collagen architectural reorientation was demonstrated histologically. Patients rated Dermatix as easier to use than silicone gel sheeting. Both Dermatix and silicone gel sheeting reduced symptoms of itching, irritation, and skin maceration.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this study indicate that Dermatix is a useful treatment for the management of abnormal scarring.
Chernoff
W Gregory
WG
Chernoff Plastic Surgery and Laser Center, 830 Second Street, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, USA. cpslc@pacbell.net
Cramer
Harvey
H
Su-Huang
Stephanie
S
D000287:Administration, Topical; D017439:Cicatrix, Hypertrophic / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004890:Erythema / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007627:Keloid / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D011446:Prospective Studies; D020034:Silicone Gels / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014481:United States
D003879:Dermatologic Agents; D020034:Silicone Gels