Which measure helps prevent scar formation after burns?

Which measure helps prevent scar formation after burns?

• A. Massage therapy
• B. Avoid moisture
• C. Moisturizers
• D. Pressure dressings

Answer: (D)

Persistent, uniform external pressure applied to a healing burn helps prevent hypertrophic scarring by altering collagen production and fiber alignment during the remodeling phase. Pressure therapy using well-fitted pressure garments delivers consistent compression (roughly 15–25 mmHg) to the scar, which reduces blood flow, decreases fibroblast activity, and promotes flatter, softer scar tissue over time. This treatment is started after the wound has epithelialized and worn for many hours each day for months, making it a central strategy for scar prevention in extensive burns. Massage can improve scar pliability later in recovery, and moisturizers aid hydration and comfort, but they don’t prevent hypertrophic scar formation like sustained pressure does.

Persistent, uniform external pressure applied to a healing burn helps prevent hypertrophic scarring by altering collagen production and fiber alignment during the remodeling phase. Pressure therapy using well-fitted pressure garments delivers consistent compression (roughly 15–25 mmHg) to the scar, which reduces blood flow, decreases fibroblast activity, and promotes flatter, softer scar tissue over time. This treatment is started after the wound has epithelialized and worn for many hours each day for months, making it a central strategy for scar prevention in extensive burns. Massage can improve scar pliability later in recovery, and moisturizers aid hydration and comfort, but they don’t prevent hypertrophic scar formation like sustained pressure does.