CLINICAL PROFILE AND MANAGEMENT OF HYPERTROPHIC SCARS AT DR. SOETOMO GENERAL ACADEMIC HOSPITAL SURABAYA, INDONESIA
Scarring is an inherent part of the body’s natural healing process after trauma or injury. However, for many individuals, scars can become more than just cosmetic concerns—they can affect functionality and quality of life. Hypertrophic and keloid scars, in particular, are a complex issue, often resulting from atypical wound healing responses. These scars are characterized by an overproduction of connective tissue and can be challenging to treat. In Indonesia, there has been limited data on the clinical profile and management strategies for hypertrophic scars. This gap in research prompted a study conducted at Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital in Surabaya, focusing on hypertrophic scars and their treatment methods.
This descriptive study, published in the Jurnal Rekonstruksi dan Estetik, used retrospective analysis of medical records from patients treated for hypertrophic scars at Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital from 2019 to 2020. By examining various variables—such as age, gender, occupation, cause of the scar, anatomical location, size, and treatment interventions—the study aimed to better understand the factors influencing hypertrophic scars and to inform more effective treatment strategies.
From 2019 to 2020, 68 patients were treated for hypertrophic scars at the hospital. A few key findings stood out:
Age and Gender: The majority of patients were young adults, aged between 17 and 25 years. The gender distribution was nearly equal, with 50% male and 50.9% female patients.
Cause of Scars: Burns were the most common cause of hypertrophic scars, accounting for 37.5% of cases, followed by other forms of trauma at 25%. Burns not only result in physical injury but also leave long-lasting scars, often in visible areas of the body.
Scar Locations: The most common areas affected by hypertrophic scars were the face (25%) and upper extremities (25%), two areas that are highly visible and crucial for functionality.
Scar Size: The majority of scars measured between 1 to 5 cm² (25%), which suggests that many cases involved moderate-sized injuries that can be managed effectively with the right therapeutic intervention.
Treatment Methods: Surgical techniques were the most widely used approach for treating hypertrophic scars, with 80% of patients receiving surgical intervention and 48% undergoing specific surgical procedures to remove or minimize the scars.
The results of this study emphasize the significance of early intervention in managing hypertrophic scars, particularly for individuals affected by burns. While the aesthetic impact of scars is immediately noticeable, their functional consequences—such as restricted movement or discomfort—can be just as significant. Treatment methods, including surgical approaches, are often necessary to minimize the effects of hypertrophic scarring and improve the patient’s quality of life.
This study provides valuable insight into the clinical profile and management of hypertrophic scars, particularly in young adults and students. The research highlights that burns are the leading cause of hypertrophic scars, with the face and upper extremities being the most affected areas. Surgical techniques remain the primary treatment method for these scars.
Understanding the factors influencing hypertrophic scars is crucial for advancing treatment options and improving patient outcomes. With more research and data collection, healthcare professionals can develop more tailored approaches for managing and treating hypertrophic scars.
For a deeper dive into the study and its findings, read the full article https://doi.org/10.20473/jre.v9i2.65031
Read more other articles: Jurnal Rekonstruksi dan Estetik
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