Publication
Title
Burn scar assessment : a systematic review of different scar scales
Author
Abstract
Background. Scars can be devastating and disfiguring, because they are clearly visible, stigmatizing, and permanent reminders of the initial accident or surgical event. Yet, there is still no consensus about the optimal scale or tool to assess the characteristics and evolution. Our aim was to evaluate the clinical importance of scar scales specifically developed for burn scars. Materials and Methods. The systematic literature search involved PubMed and the Web of Science (including Science Citation Index). Results. The search resulted in 29 articles (including seven reviews) dealing with a new, modified, or validated scale. Scar scales assess several characteristics, of which color, pliability, and thickness were considered the most important. Physical limitation, pain, and pruritus are often more disturbing than the appearance of the scar, and are therefore also introduced in scar evaluation, as well as the interference with daily life activities (e.g., psychologic impact). Conclusion. In contrast to the more objective scar assessment tools, scar scales usually cover more aspects of the scars and are less time-consuming in clinical practice. However, no strong conclusions can be made about their efficacy and validity. In addition to digital photography, scar scales are a valuable instrument in the clinical evaluation and follow-up of scars. (C) 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Journal of surgical research. - Philadelphia, Pa
Publication
San diego : Academic press inc elsevier science , 2010
ISSN
0022-4804
DOI
10.1016/J.JSS.2010.05.056
Volume/pages
164 :1 (2010) , p. E115-E123
ISI
000285747600017
Pubmed ID
20828761
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Publication type
Subject
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 01.10.2021
Last edited 24.02.2023
To cite this reference