Laser in the treatment of hypertrophic burn scars

Abstract

This prospective study looked at the outcome of laser (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) treatment for hypertrophic scarring. Dermatrade mark K laser (a set of combined lasers erbium:yttrium aluminium garnet/carbon dioxide, qualified as a class IV laser) was used. Between 21 June 2000 and 19 November 2002, at the Siemianowice Burn Center, Poland, 592 interventions, using laser, were performed on N= 327 patients (220 women and 107 men, aged between 3 and 80 years). The majority of cases [N= 223 (68.9%)] were patients with post-burn hypertrophic scars, and 104 cases (31.8%) had various types of hypertrophic scars. Evaluation took place using an adapted Vancouver Scar Scale and digital photographs as well as the patient's opinion. It was noted that after laser treatment, satisfactory results were achieved in 72% of cases. The scars had become less red (192/327 scored no redness at the end of the study versus 92/327 upon initial), less raised (272/327 scored a flat scar versus 72/327 upon initial) and demonstrated an improved viscoelasticity (192/327 scored a soft skin versus 62/327 upon initial). Laser treatment did not improve contractures in post-burn hypertrophic scars. Results were not confirmed using objective measurement tools, as these were not available to us.