SCAR MANAGEMENT & COMPRESSION GARMENTS

1. SCAR MANAGEMENT&COMPRESSION GARMENTS Carol Amos August 2004

2. SCAR MANAGEMENT 3 MAJOR INFLUENCES ON SCAR TISSUE FOR A SUCCESSFUL COSMETIC OUTCOME • PATIENTS SKIN TYPE • SURGICAL TECHNIQUE • POST OPERATIVE CARE

3. PATIENTS SKIN TYPE3 types of scarring • Normal scar tissue • Hypertrophic scar tissue • Keloid scars

4. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE • Appropriately skilled surgeon for type of surgery to be performed • Appropriate atraumatic suture for specific area of body • Appropriate surgical closure to reduce tension on wound

5. POST OPERATIVE CARE • Timely removal of sutures • Support for the scar in early stages-dressings and steri strips • Long term scar support • MASSAGE

6. BENEFITS OF MASSAGE • Decreases the inflammatory phase • Breaks down “Blocks” off scar tissue • Increases Capillary Proliferation – healing • Assists in de-sensitization of scars • Re-hydrates scar tissue

7. METHOD OF MASSAGE • Commence 1 week after the removal of sutures-only if wound is fully healed • Start gently and increase until after the 1st week the massage is as firm as possible. • Must be continued for 3 months and done at least 2-3 times per day for 5-10 minutes • Type of Moisturiser used is not important to the outcome.

8. HYPERTROPHIC AND KELOID SCARS • Scar reduction silicone dressings • Must be used for a period of months • Can be expensive • Directions for use must be adhered to • Discontinue if adverse effects to surrounding skin

9. COMPRESSION GARMENTS Creates Faster Wound Healing • Controls swelling • Increases Blood Flow to the wound • Supports the scar, skin, muscle and fat • Reduces risk of complications

10. IMPORTANCE OF ESPECIALLY DESIGNED GARMENTS • Garments without a crotch – not necessary to remove them during the day • Zippered sides – easy to put on. • Stretch fabric engineered especially for post operative garments- Latex free • Cooler and dryer- more comfortable and helps healing • Better compression